We know we’re social beings. These last months have proven just how much we rely on human interaction.
While we may have been on “Stay at Home” and “Safer at Home” restrictions, they haven’t totally constrained our togetherness. Neighbors have begun holding Happy Hour gatherings in their drive ways and cul-de-sacs.
Well dressed in our designer masks, we’ve made our way over to join others for a social time. All the while, we have sat spaced appropriately apart while sipping (that’s a challenge) and nibbling our snacks.
Some have resorted to hosting virtual Happy Hours from the safety of their homes. These become easier since no masks impede the liquid consumption or gnashing on appetizers. Even with larger groups, breakout sessions enable more informal conversations. Minimally, we can see each other and connect all without the frequent hugging accompanying these gatherings.
Those in book clubs have found a means of hosting their meetings. They too have reverted to Zooming or other platforms. Literary groups have done the same while planning for members to present their 30-minute papers virtually. While not optimal, such meetings keep members united.
As we all venture out a little more, back yard Happy Hours and meals have occurred. With adequate spacing, anything’s possible.
To insure a safer gathering, giving each guest a bowl and spoon for the appetizers reduces “fingering” the food. With a variety of appetizers, guests can sample as they wish heaping their bowls.
With warmer weather returning, back yard BBQ’s and meals can and do occur. Guests arriving with masks soon leave them around their necks or dangling from their ears. With groups of four, five or six, spacing everyone around a large table works.
Becoming creative helps us stay social, apart. That certainly beats no social interaction!
~ By Marty Coffin Evans