Covid fatigue or pandemic burnout is real and I have it. I have grown weary of masks, hand sanitizer, social distancing, limited gatherings and the like. The buzzwords are driving me nuts too. Hearing swirling phrases like the new normal, self-quarantine, herd immunity, super spreaders and lockdowns just get me down. I have a hard time even typing them into my computer.
It is true that 2020 has been a difficult year. It saddens me that the virus has killed over 230,000 of my fellow Americans; almost 17,000 Floridians. On the other hand, I am relieved the vast majority of people recover. It is my prayer that all who get this virus recover fully and completely.
It appears now that the virus is on the move and spreading rapidly again. So, will 2021 be any different? I don’t know. There is optimism for a vaccine (another buzzword I am tired of), but who knows when it will be available or how effective it will be. How, then, do I go forward with this pandemic burnout?
The answer is vigilance. Like the watchmen on the wall who would guard the city of Jerusalem, I must stay alert and steadfast. Imagine sitting outside all night long keeping watch for potential attacks while fighting off the heavy eyelids that come with such boredom.
In the same way, I must watch and be alert. I must keep watch for the virus which means masks, hand sanitizing, social distancing and limited gatherings. Even though I am exhausted with this stuff, I must continue to do my part for my own health, the health of my family, my church and my community. Dig down deep! There is a second wind to be found. Be vigilant brothers and sisters.