There was an NYT article the other day about how the vaccines have not cured covid in Israel, and we’re back where we started. I must admit I am more comfortable now that masks are back and everyone is being more careful. It was foolish to open things up totally, and it always made me feel more vulnerable. And stupid. I mean I was the only one not going out, fearful of meeting friends, buying only online. I don’t mind another year of being careful, but let it be a care that all of society takes.

On the other hand, we have to find ways to get past the sense of ageing and isolation that so many of my friends feel. Even my nephew today complained of the failure he felt for having to leave his father his dinner at the door of his house for the year before he died. How much did that age them both, do you think?

And now I visited with a friend who has been kept from her grandchildren for the past year. She has blown up and looks old and sad. “Will I ever return to myself?” she asked me. I looked at her and thought we have to find a way. A dance group, volunteer work, something significant… Any suggestions? Me, I’m getting a new car tomorrow. It’s my solution.

But the article in the Times is wrong. Things ARE getting better here, but we thought it was over and opened the gates…