We have all experienced the life-altering affects of the pandemic. In THIS INTERVIEW you’ll learn its toll on author Sydney Walters.
While promoting her novel State of Grace, Sydney took time to answer our “2000 BC Q&A”, reflecting on her life before COVID-19 and how things have changed personally and professionally since.
Tell us what you miss most from life before COVID-19.
In a messed up way, I miss the bliss that came with the ignorance of living amongst modern medicine in America. I miss thinking that we, as a society, were far too advanced to go back to the days of plagues and mass graves.
I miss the illusion of safety.
Where were you when you learned about COVID-19 and how did you respond?
I was hosting a trivia night at a bar with a large crowd when I heard it on one of the TVs. I didn’t realize how serious it was at the time.
My initial reaction was similar to the movie Shaun of the Dead, that I would sit down, have myself a pint, and wait for all of this to blow over.
What, for you, have been the personal and professional benefits, and setbacks, from the pandemic?
Some major benefits for me include completing my first two novels. I realized that I had been putting off writing to go out and be with friends, just goofing off really. So, getting back into my writing space was crucial to me.
I’m also lucky enough to work 100% remotely, so that was a blessing in disguise.
The downsides sort of reflect the benefits — being stuck at home got tiring, fast. Found myself pacing a lot, and tapping pens against things.
Do you have faith in the vaccine?
I do have faith in the vaccine, but not for me exactly. I chose to get the vaccine so that I could visit my parents and grandparents safely. I believe it’s keeping them safe.
Who do you talk to the most to keep your spirits up and help you stay optimistic?
My sister, Lindy. The whole world could be going to hell, and she’d be baking cookies and chatting about some cute face masks she found online. She is a light in the dark.
Has the pandemic caused you to value your life and the lives of others more than you did already?
I value humanity as a whole. We all share the same rock, you know?
But hearing people calling the virus a “boomer remover” made me sick to my stomach. Sure, younger and older generations are in turmoil, and they likely will be forever. But wishing death on anyone is cruel, so I definitely value the elderly more than I had before.
What about your immediate surroundings have you become more aware of?
My fire alarm making a “beep” every now and then.
How my kitchen faucet occasionally drips.
How my roommate would go “ahh” after sipping every drink.
These little things I never noticed before that eventually drove me mad.
What’s something that had to change because of the pandemic that you hope doesn’t change back once it’s over?
I sincerely hope that employers will be more mindful of their employees if they become sick in the future.
Stop forcing people to work when they are ill. It’s not only a biohazard, but it’s dehumanizing. |THIS.
[By M.J. Walker]
