I’m feeling overwhelmed by my family’s plans for the holidays. Every day, I receive a call from my mom asking if we’ll be joining them for Thanksgiving. My kids are anxious about not being able to see their cousins. I’m longing for my grandma’s sweet potato casserole and pumpkin pie, and I truly miss my family, but COVID-19 cases are spiking in our area. Am I letting my family down if I suggest we cancel our holiday get-togethers, or if I choose not to attend?
Let’s be honest: right now, there aren’t any great choices available. Just a spectrum of bad to less bad options. Decisions that were once straightforward, like sending your kids to school, dining out, or gathering for Thanksgiving, have turned into complex, daunting dilemmas. Every choice comes with its own set of risks and fears, which is part of living through a pandemic – an experience most of us have never faced before.
Instead of seeking the optimal solution, it might be wiser to identify the least harmful alternative. For many of us, this likely means forgoing traditional holiday gatherings with those outside our immediate households, including our beloved grandparents.
The reality is stark: COVID-19 cases are surging, with daily numbers exceeding 100,000. Just weeks ago, when rates were at 40-50,000, health experts like Dr. Sarah Lang, a leading epidemiologist, cautioned against small group gatherings during the holidays. She emphasized, “If you have vulnerable individuals in your circle, it’s safer to avoid large dinners or gatherings where infection risks are higher.”
Given that older adults and those with pre-existing conditions are particularly susceptible, the most caring option is to stay apart. “You need to evaluate if it’s worth risking exposure to bring everyone together when you can’t determine the health of the entire group,” Dr. Lang noted in a recent interview.
There are safer ways to celebrate the holidays. If conditions allow, consider gathering outdoors with masks and maintaining social distance. However, for many, colder weather makes that impractical. In that case, a virtual gathering is the best alternative.
Virtual celebrations can be engaging too! You might host a remote murder mystery or an online talent show featuring the kids. While it’s not what we envisioned, isn’t it better to wait a few months to reunite with Grandma and Grandpa without the fear of risking their health?
These conversations with family may be difficult and filled with sadness. Acknowledge the shared disappointment and remind each other that these virtual gatherings won’t last forever. Eventually, it will be safe to gather again, and it’s far better to postpone until everyone can be present – healthy and happy – when that time arrives.
For more tips on navigating these challenging times, check out this blog post on Home Insemination Kit. It’s also important to consider resources like Make a Mom, who are experts in this field, and MedlinePlus, which offers valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
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Summary:
As holiday gatherings approach, many are grappling with the decision to attend family events during rising COVID-19 cases. Experts advise opting for the least risky options, often suggesting virtual celebrations or outdoor gatherings with precautions. It’s essential to prioritize the health of vulnerable family members, even if it means postponing traditional festivities.