Perspective is powerful. Yesterday, I spoke on the phone with a good friend. After talking business, we discussed the continuing nightmare quarantine and how we are enduring social isolation. “Stay at home orders have given me a newfound respect for parents, especially, like you or my sis, those of young children,” I admitted.

I cannot imagine the patience, as well as the added pressures, for homeschooling and supervising the kids’ activities every day. Moreover, I assume the speculation about how continued isolation might negatively affect children’s social and personal development must be concerning for parents.

My friend reiterated that he very much loves his wife and children and would not trade his situation, though he sometimes thinks, “Matt’s situation is awesome. He can drink or sleep as much he wants to and is not responsible for anyone else.” I reflected on those thoughts last night.

I am forty-one years old and single with no children. In the past, I have thought, “Yikes! What the fuck is wrong with me?” Today, I am thankful for my health, my stellar family, and my excellent friends. I remind myself that the grass is not always greener, and life is good.