“Communities are coming together. Relationships are more meaningful.”

What are your fears and/or concerns right now?

I am deeply concerned about the lack of leadership in the White House. This has caused unnecessary deaths and put the US many weeks behind the rest of the world in addressing the pandemic. I am concerned about the 44 million people who do not have health insurance and the 35 million who could lose their insurance due to layoffs. I'm worried about how I will cover my mortgage, support my kids and get health insurance if I lose my job.

What have you learned from living this new normal?

I appreciate my job and miss the daily interaction with colleagues at the office. I miss their energy, ideas and spirit. My daughter has taught me to live in the moment - that worrying about a sick friend while on a bike ride will not help the friend and will ruin the moment. I am trying to be more "present."

Do you think anything positive will come from all of this?

Yes, people are reaching out to help those in need - donating food, delivering supplies, making face masks and helping neighbors. People are appreciating those who provide services - farm workers, sanitation workers, grocery store clerks, delivery people, restaurant workers, and of course, our health care workers. Communities are coming together. Relationships are more meaningful.

READ THE STORIES

Click on any of the images below to learn more about what's on the minds of fellow Richmonders. From the pandemic to protests, our community has traveled through months of uncertainty, introspection and reflection. Sharing stories gives us an opportunity to learn, connect and grow with one another in the hopes of cultivating a more compassionate, open-minded and empathetic city to live in.