McAvoy 911

I believe youI believe you

Dear Covid-19 While I am not impressed with your presence in my life and the lives of so many others, I have taken pause to graciously accept it. To me, you are the drunk cousin at a funeral - you know, the one no one wants there, but can’t do anything about. You may belong at the funeral just like everyone else, but you are drunk and out of control. People are waiting for you to say something inappropriate that will make everyone super uncomfortable. We are all waiting, wond...ering when it’s going to happen. But yet, the sense of uncertainty you create is riddled with truths that so many of us don’t have the guts to put into words. Don’t get me wrong, your delivery and timing could not be worse, but the message holds a spark of truth. Covid-19, I noticed you were drunk before you even spoke. I felt the uneasiness you so often create in myself and others, before you even did something stupid. I recognized that your sheer presence is going to shake things up. I hate that you are here. But your presence makes us question why your truth makes us uncomfortable with issues we have never had the courage to face, and I do not like this awkwardness. Because your presence makes some of us rise to the occasion to protect others, I can appreciate you. However, when your presence causes others to crumble under the pressure, I hate you. I want to scream at you, to make you listen, to have you realize that you don’t belong here, but I don’t. I see you taking aim at the sick and vulnerable, then redirecting your efforts to others who are well, not as vulnerable. You are out of control. I hate what you are doing, and I am not one to sit back and watch passively while people are being bullied. You are dangerous, and for that, I have to be cautious in my approach, and respect distance. However, I am not completely without control in how I respond to your purposefully hurtful and bullying antics. So, I take my negative energy you have created, and channel it to help others who are struggling with your presence. I am learning more and more about myself, my family, my community and my clients in this new world you have created. And while I don’t like the feeling that I cannot control the timing of my reactions, I have to thank you for revealing my sheer ability to stay in control and help others who do not feel any control with your presence. Your drunk temper tantrum is not breaking me. It is making me better at what I do, and who I am. I see things differently. I feel challenged to rise to the terrible, awkward situation you have created. Covid-19, I understand that you have a purpose, but I think it’s time you sober up and get out. I will continue to fight you for the sake of others. I will continue to empower those who struggle with your presence. I will continue to make a mockery of you, while undeniably putting myself at risk. It’s what I do dear Covid-19. Together we will kick your ass. Deal with it! Yours Truly, Michelle McAvoy