I had my first socially-distanced back yard get together with more than two people a few weeks ago.  With a bit of fear and trepidation, I emailed a few single girlfriends and suggested that if their risk tolerance was high enough, that we might sit in my back garden for a few hours, drink wine and catch up in person – for the first time in months.

In fact the last time I saw this particular group of lovely ladies was for my “going away” dinner, just before my sabbatical got stomped on by COVID-19.We were very good – we sat a respectful 2 metres apart – but it was ever so nice to connect with a group of friends again. Our part of Ontario is not yet in Phase 3 but we are expecting that may change next week. Until then, these small social gatherings are all that is allowed.

We talked a lot that night about the differences between Canada and the US in how this situation has been handled.  While Canada hasn’t done everything right, and in fact has had several big missteps, not the least of which is around long-term care homes, all of us were impressed at how our politicians – from every stripe – mostly came together to work hand-in-hand to stop the spread of this virus. We’ve listened to our scientists and we’ve generally followed the rules they’ve laid out for us. We’re learning, sometimes reluctantly, to wear masks when we are together indoors. This is a good thing, because it will let our small businesses, crushed by several months of closure, start to get back on their feet.

We’ve generally stayed away from big public gatherings and even on our nation’s birthday at the beginning of the month, saw small family gatherings and local community fireworks rather than crowding together for one big giant display. Parliament Hill was empty. And in fact, I think that was probably better. I went for a walk at dusk when my neighbourhood park started lighting up. Watching youngsters jump up and down in excitement and pure joy as their parent’s small firework stash soared up into the air made me smile.

Contrast all of this with what’s happening to our neighbours to the south, and it makes one really glad the borders are staying closed. But it shouldn’t surprise us. America is the land where everyone succeeds based on what each one does. It’s the place about personal rights and freedoms, where every man for himself. There is far less emphasis on a social safety net. So whereas mask wearing is becoming relatively commonplace where I live, and people see it as a way to protect others. Of course, this is an oversimplification and a bit of a stereotype, but as we see the numbers climbing in the US, I’m glad Ontario has taken a more cautious, gradual approach to reopening. Fingers crossed that we will be respectful when things do open again and will keep our numbers down.

How are you doing as this pandemic continues? How are things where you live? Are you anxious to get out again? Or are you comfortable in your cocoon? Let me know in the comments below!