Buzz
As we enter the seventh, eighth, or ninth week of navigating this unprecedented situation, we find ourselves in vastly different circumstances compared to where we began (even as we remain physically in the same locations). On one hand, maintaining physical distance has become somewhat easier with time: Most individuals are taking precautions seriously, mask usage has increased, and curbside pickup has become the norm. On the other hand, many of us are growing restless, eager to venture outside or perhaps visit just one close friend.
I’ve heard stories of people deciding it’s acceptable to meet a friend who has also been strictly adhering to distancing measures... but if that friend has interacted with others they deem low-risk, and those individuals have met with even more people, it quickly becomes clear that the rules are being stretched.
Another pressing question for many is when it’s safe to visit parks or beaches. In some respects, outdoor spaces might be among the safer options: If you can maintain a six-foot distance from others and everyone wears masks en route, the risk may be minimal. However, we’ve all seen the images of beaches and parks overflowing with crowds.
I’m eager to hear how you’re navigating this, readers: How have your personal guidelines around risk evolved? Have you become more careful, or less so? Have your thoughts shifted on which risks are worth taking?
