So how are you doing?
We’re going to be checking in regularly as we learn to live with the challenges of COVID-19.
(Photo provided by Akilah Adams)
‘I’m learning to give myself grace’
Who: Akilah Adams
Neighborhood: Sherman Park
How’s your life since we’ve been told to stay home? Being a single mother of a very active 9-year-old daughter, I must admit that when the order came out and school was canceled, I panicked. Luckily, my job at Direct Supply has been more than accommodating with allowing all partners to go remote on March 13. Making sure my daughter stays on task for schoolwork and supplemental online resources while still working full time in the house has been a huge adjustment.
There are days that I don’t know how to keep her on track while I am in Google Hangout meetings, and then there are days where the time flies and she’s so happy to just be next to me. Every day is different, and I’m learning to give myself grace.
What do you feel you need more of? We are blessed to have everything that we need and more. Maybe more wine after a full day of work, teaching and mommying!
What do you need less of? Probably direct access to snacks while working!
Say something to inspire your neighbor: We have all been guilty of saying we didn’t have time to do something. That “something” could have been relaxing, organizing, playing with our kids or even deep cleaning. Stay calm, read less of the social media panic posts and use this time inside wisely. We will get through this and come out stronger and wiser.
(Photo provided by Esperanza Gutierrez)
‘The hardest thing is not holding those who I love’
Who: Esperanza Gutierrez
Neighborhood: Lincoln Village
How’s your life since we’ve been told to stay home? It has been a mix bag, with more than enough time for little and big projects at home. It is hard when one has the keys to go out and the fear of not surviving is all on you. I am listening not to officials, but my family members who tell me to stay at home. And to my grandchildren that tell me they want me around to see them grow up. I am a person that needs hugs on a daily basis, so not getting them is hurting.
I try to keep a regular schedule of daily routines. My people get food for me. But they ring the doorbell, ask me to step aside and put them on the table or doorway and go down the steps talking from afar, with air kisses and hugs. I feel guilty and sorry for people who call me, for I hold them hostage even when they have said goodbye (I am working on being grateful that they call and hoping not to complain.)
They say one must learn to be comfortable with one’s company, but I am not. I was learning to go out by myself, to movies or restaurant or just a park. But frankly that is not my thing.
What do you feel you need more of? Out of this, I see good things. I see positive advertisement in all types of media. I love to see that Mother Nature is showing us that she can heal herself if we give her a chance. The hardest thing is not holding those who I love or even giving a hug to a new person.
What do you need less of? What I need less is to see all the negativity and self-praise of those who are to care for all people regardless of their age, gender, gender fluidity, religion, or medical and financial status. I love people and value them. I see people as the greatest resources we have.
Say something to inspire your neighbor: We are in it together. Let us be kind. Fear will destroy us. Love and charity toward each other will make us strong.
You can let us know how you’re doing by answering the questions posed in the article. Send your answers and a photo of yourself to info@milwaukeenns.org. You can also comment below.
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