Publisher’s Letter On My Mind As tears streamed down Willie Nelson’s face on the Jumbotron as he serenaded the crowd with “Always On My Mind”, I wondered why he was crying. It turned out that it most likely was over the recent death of a band member. Little did Willie or the rest of us know that the world was about to change. It was March 12, only a few days after I had attended the rodeo to see one of Texas’ greatest treasures perform. The announcement shot out over the airwaves and internet that the remainder of the rodeo had been canceled. Mayor Turner and the rodeo had agreed to forego the rest of this world-class event to protect the city from the spread of some virus called COVID-19. It reminded me of the feeling I got as a kid the day I heard President Kennedy was shot. What ensued was a city shutdown that caused many businesses to close, gatherings to cease, and lives to drastically change. Today with many lives lost and the unpredictable nature of our lives, Willie’s words from that favorite song ring clear:
“The little things I should have said and done I just never took the time”.
The pandemic still threatens our ability to assemble in large groups and do so many things we enjoy; however, we can now more effectively treat patients and prevent the spread. We also know a few simple protocols of masks and social distancing slow and even stop the spread. We know our numbers in Texas, and the US cases, have slowed and decreased as a result. Despite the suffering, hope springs eternal because that is all there is.
New World As we look ahead, we see a new world order and a reincarnation of some of the old. Drive-in movie theaters are back again due to the closure of indoor theaters. Bicycling has also become a popular choice for many families. While it is evident that much of this virtual world will continue in the future, I welcome returning to life as we knew it pre-COVID. It may be a while before we shake hands again. I will relish the opportunity when it arrives. Remember the abandoned, homeless, unemployed, underemployed, and so many suffering from homelessness due to these unforeseen and uncertain circumstances. We are indeed all in this together. Despite the suffering, hope springs eternal because that is all there is. That evening with Willie Nelson will always be on my mind.
