One Year In: a Retrospective Glance

The Journal of Christian Newcomer chronicles a period from 1810-1829 when he made annual horseback trips between his home in Hagerstown, Maryland and southwestern Ohio.  Spread throughout the pages are occasional tales detailing bouts of sickness and disease.  The people of various communities fell helplessly in large numbers to infectious ailments that were beyond their understanding. 

It was a year ago this month when the Coronavirus Pandemic became more than just a story of impending doom for Warren County Ohio.  Some of us have lost loved ones.  Some of us have lost jobs or businesses.  We all have sacrificed.  Yet I can’t help but wonder what would have happened had COVID-19 come calling for Christian Newcomer during his assorted travels.   I can’t help but be grateful for the gifts we receive thanks to the relentless march of curious minds and scientific discovery. 

Yes, we’re still inconvenienced.  Yes, too many of us are waiting for a vaccine.  Yes, you’re ready to leave the mask wearing to your dentist and hygienist.  Only from the perspective of hindsight will we best appreciate what we collectively have accomplished.  Ironically it is our social isolation that binds us together.  We can see through new eyes just how much we really do need each other.   I’m looking forward to seeing you at the dental office.