It’s been a year since COVID-19 forced everyone to enter a lockdown, social distance from other humans, and wear a mask. Yes, it’s been difficult and uncomfortable at times, but there seems to be a light at the end of this very long and dark tunnel. Because I work at a public library, I’m classified as an “educator”, and the city I work for offered me an opportunity to receive the vaccine. I received my first dose of the Moderna vaccine in February, and I just received my second dose two days ago. I had mild chills after the first dose, but the second dose really put me out: fever, chills, body ache and a headache. Two days later, I’m beginning to fell better. Despite my reaction to the vaccine, I’m glad I took it.

I hope everyone takes the vaccine so we can begin to get back to normal. I’m looking forward to stepping outside of my apartment without a mask on, and going to different venues again. I’m looking forward to eating in my favorite restaurants without feeling paranoid. We can all get there, but we’ll get there much faster if everyone cooperates.