For several months I stopped listening to the news altogether. I did not want to listen to one more thing about COVID19 and besides, I had a garden and chickens that required my attention. Things have slowed down outside now, so about a month ago I began listening to the 6 o’clock evening news on PBS. It feels strange with many newscasters broadcasting from home, either from their home offices or their living rooms. I especially enjoy listening to segments with Lisa Desjardins, political journalist for the PBS NewsHour. I must admit, it is because I am often distracted by her cat that is often sleeping on the sofa behind her. It is a black and white cat and having had a black and white cat of my own, I am curious to know the name of her cat. Sometimes, it will get up and stretch, reposition itself, and lie back down. Sometimes it will jump down or lie on the floor. I have watched other reporters whose cats walked by during the middle of their interview. It is truly heartwarming to see that these are not just reporters, but real people with pets, just like us.
It feels almost wrong to be looking into these peoples’ homes and to be privy to their personal tastes. Often, they have bookshelves in the background and you can occasionally read some of the titles. Many of them have artwork on their walls and family photos, giving us a glimpse into their personal lives. Our world has changed dramatically and I believe that working from home will be a trend into the future. This is a good thing. Too many people have made fortunes and had the ability to buy big, beautiful homes; but since they were always working, they had little time to maintain or to enjoy them. I think many have forgotten how important home is. “Home is where the heart is.” Even as in my own case, where my current home is only temporary, I make it mine by the way in which I arrange furniture and display my favorite pictures. I care for the property, plant flowers, and feed birds where I live, because creating a home where we can feel safe is really just a basic requirement for all living things.
As we shelter in place, we do not have to feel isolated. Thanks to our modern devices we can stay connected to as many, or as few others, as we like. Our need for shelter is hard wired; but connecting with others is optional. You may find, as I have found, that there can be a kind of intimacy through digital communication when you see not just another human being reporting the news, but a real person with a contented cat.
