Still Standing

Still Standing
            This ongoing pandemic situation sometimes feels like swimming in slow motion through a thick, transparent goo. We see terrible things happening left and right, yet are unable to reach through the gelatinous trap to help.
            We fumblingly attempt to take care of those immediately within reach: selves, loved ones, pets. When something goes awry with those, our sense of helplessness and frustration explodes.
            Seeing favorite restaurants, stores, fitness studios, museums, sports venues, performing arts institutions, and countless other places fall by the wayside knocks away our sense of foundation.
            Worse than the business and institutional closings is the people-related losses. Livelihoods. Homes. Health. Lives.
            Those harsh realities can’t be brushed aside, nor should they be. But to survive tough stretches like this, we have to find some sense of hope and optimism. I look out and remember the special places that are still here, the treasured people who are still here, the spirit of goodness that is still here among many.
            There’s no way to dodge the devastating reality brought on by the pandemic, but we can appreciate what is here today, and know that there will still be people, places and the essence of things we care about in existence going forward.
            Remember to tell people you love them. If you have a little money to spare, support a local business you love, or donate to an organization you value.
            Most of all, stop and take deep breaths. Look out and see that many of the things we love and rely on to sustain us are still standing. Even the worst pendulum swings eventually swing back in a good direction.
            This week’s Hike Notes are from the archives, Fort Mason Stairs to Hyde Street Pier, a walk that offers classic views of Alcatraz, the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, and more.
            The long list of Hikes can be found on the Quick View Hike List and on the main Hikes page. All past Insights posts can also be viewed in the Insights/Hike Update News archives.
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photo galleries at the bottom of each hike page! Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Please feel free to share.
This week’s Hike Notes from the Archives:

1. (Original Hike Notes 58): Fort Mason Stairs to Hyde Street Pier