By Eduardo Morales, Ph.D.–
As we move toward the end of summer, take time to reflect on those whom you value and appreciate in your life before you get preoccupied with the events of the fall and winter seasons. Try to reconnect with those whom you miss and have not kept in close contact with for some time. The various seasonal holidays often permit opportunities for reconnecting with friends and loved ones, but those gatherings may not allow for sufficient, more personal quality time.
Take inventory of those who have been important in your life. If you cannot be with them in person, just simply write them a note or call to express that you have been thinking about them and wish to catch up on their news. Given the multiple pandemics we are experiencing, it would be unfortunate not to take the time now to express appreciations of friendship and to plan to visit with others soon. Once friends and family members have gone or departed, we are frequently left with desires, recollections, and regrets.
Lately I have taken the time to get my affairs in order so that I can spend time with those whom I value and appreciate. Wishing them well by writing a card, calling them, and getting together to catch up are some of my goals for the remainder of this year. I feel better when I reach out to reconnect with my friends, family members, and colleagues. Now I have the time before the busy season of holidays complicates social schedules.
The fall season can take on a new meaning and adventure by recognizing that it is a season to reconnect. Through this process I hope to feel more complete, resolved, and fulfilled.
The COVID-19 pandemic, multiple monkeypox (MPX) cases, and even an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Northern California have affected our typical lifestyles and ways to socialize. The new vaccine for the different variants of COVID-19 is available as well as the annual flu vaccine. Consider these forms of protection so you can move along with your life and minimize the fear of becoming infected.
I continue to be cautious by wearing a KN95 mask when I am among crowds and doing chores. I feel it is a small price to pay in lieu of running a higher risk of being sick and being unable to socialize. Consider receiving the MPX vaccine, which is now more plentiful and available than in past months. At some agencies like AGUILAS, the staff can make an appointment for you to receive the MPX vaccine through the San Francisco Department of Public Health so you can avoid the long wait lines. For more information: https://www.sfaguilas.org/
Kaiser is also administering MPX vaccines and usually requires an appointment. These vaccines are free of charge! Although there are very few fatalities caused by the complications of MPX infections throughout the world, I understand that infection of MPX is very painful and will restrict your ability to socialize and live your life.
I look forward to the upcoming gatherings, street fairs, and festivities here in the Bay Area. I maintain my precautions while socializing and feel comforted that I have utilized the various vaccines to keep myself protected. Meanwhile, now is the time for me to reconnect and engage with my friends, so, I plan to use the late summer and fall to be with those whom I value and to let them know how much I appreciate them.
Eduardo Morales, PhD, is one of the founders of AGUILAS, where he serves as Executive Director. He is also a Professor Emeritus and retired Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Alliant International University and is the current Past President of the National Latinx Psychological Association.
Nuestra Voz
Published on September 8, 2022
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