Season’s Greetings from HPB

Tis’ the season to be jolly, celebratory, peaceful, giving, and appreciative. Tis’ the season to also wear masks and practice social distancing that many readily or reluctantly welcomed during most of 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic indeed has compelled many around the world to celebrate this time of year at a distance. But it hasn’t devalued the importance of the holiday season nor negated the greatest gift we could ever ask for: love among family members and friends.

Of course, holiday gatherings are smaller this year at the recommendation of public health officials. This means many will be sending holiday wishes via phone and video conferencing platform. This certainly is a tiresome mandate to accept. I’ve learned, however, to appreciate the strange, new normal of social-distancing guidelines. Why? It’s because I feel comforted to know that my loved ones are remaining safe and healthy and that being at a distance doesn’t prevent any of us from continuing to feel the love for those close to us.

Granted, I would give anything to see my family and friends in person. But this is the sacrifice I must make in the name of public health. And with the recent approval of vaccines that couldn’t come soon enough (with possibly more to come), I hope that by this time next year, the old normal of being in the company of many loved ones will have returned and will be something that we all will have a greater appreciation for.

I wish you all happy holidays! May it be a heartwarming, safe, and healthy experience.

Pedro Antonio

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