BY GABRIEL VALLES -
What was once a place where people could be close to each other at a baseball game or a concert, has turned into a place where those small things seem like a distant memory.
The year 2020 has given many of us the time to reflect on what is truly important. Even amidst all the chaos we are all still finding a way to power through and get things done.
Some El Pasoans have even taken time out of their busy days to share some of their stories and even provide some photos.
Connie Perez
“I don’t spend as much money as I used to. COVID has made me not have to leave the house very much,” said El Pasoan Connie Perez, about her experience with the ongoing pandemic.
For many people, not just in El Paso but around the world, even just going outside can be a hassle.
Most stores, restaurants and gas stations require us to wear masks, social distance and often times they even set limitations on how many people can enter.
Most people understand that these “rules” are set in place to protect us from contracting the disease, but others are sick and tired of having to abide by these new ways of living.
Javier Valles is one of these people who isn’t having it, “Making us wear masks goes against our freedom.”
This kind of ideology is what some people seem to be feeling, but it also polarizes others who just want to play by the rules and put this pandemic to rest.
Most families are struggling to find times to leave the house for much more than just going to work and getting groceries from the store.
Javier Valles
The Rodriguez family is among these people who are working around these uncertain times.
“We have been able to work,” said Ms. Rodriguez.
When asked if they have been going out as much as they used to she said, “Not as much. Only to the store like once a week.”
Her son also added that, “there have been restrictions to see other family members.”
This new normal has certainly been, and continues to be, a struggle for the younger working-class member of society, but the elder community is the demographic that is at a higher risk of catching COVID-19.
The elderly are far less likely to take trips anywhere even if that means just going to grocery store.
Ms. Campos, who chose not to give her first name, is a part of this demographic that doesn’t go outside for many things. “I’ve had to stay home since it all started. I don’t go out except for my doctor’s appointments.”
The evidence of COVID-19’s destruction is well documented as it has taken the lives of over 1.2 million people worldwide.
The disease does not discriminate against people of varying color, age or ethnicity.
Anybody at anytime can contract the coronavirus if they are not careful so the best course of action, even if many people do not agree, is to wear a mask every time you go outside and to practice good personal hygiene, especially washing your hands.
If we continue to do these things the pandemic will end soon.