It was a beautiful sunny spring day. As I walked with my 18 year old along the Harlem River on the Riverside promenade, we saw an older man soaking up the sun. He was lying on a grassy patch by himself, practically naked. In lieu of a mask, he wore a thong. Yes indeed. It was the most exposed I’ve seen anyone since the start of this pandemic. It was probably the most exposed I’ve seen anyone – ever – out in Riverside Park.
Despite the questionable scenery for a moment, it was nice to walk with my son. So many families with young children were out and about, and I was transported back in time to those early days of parenting. I am sure there were times I couldn’t wait until my weekends were free of diapers and playgrounds, strollers and scooters, 8am baseball games and frozen flag football games, but I also miss that kind of family time. Our situation now, during the covid-19 outbreak, is a bit forced and a lot more crowded. The boys didn’t want or expect to be completing their spring semesters of college here at home; they are not as interested in board games or card games or having a catch; choosing a family movie involves more arguments; and coordinating private space while we all work, teach, and learn remotely at home is an on-going struggle. We are literally and figuratively stepping on each others’ toes. But my younger son is still willing to walk with me and, as I returned to the present, I simply enjoyed his company.
One thing that struck me as we walked was how “normal” it is now to see people wearing masks, and how strange – even disturbing – it felt at times seeing someone without one. Masks are expected and in many cases essential. They’re more than a trend, and for some they’re a real fashion statement. There’s such a variety – from plain store-bought disposables to construction or medical grade to DIY bandanas, scarves, or t-shirts… some haphazardly tied and others carefuly cut or folded according to the directions on YouTube… to tailor made or otherwise hand made to perfection… We saw some people wearing masks that were color coordinated with their outfit, or had matching fabrics with a partner or whole family; others were sporting their favorite sports team logo, an occasional superhero, clever or not so clever quotes (such as “6 feet”). Masks were pulled up from around the neck or tied behind the head or looped over ears… and we walked past some people wearing their masks below their nose or beneath their chin, as if they felt that having a mask at all was following the “rules.”
We’ve learned quickly to recognize our neighbors in their masks and even to identify their smiles through their eyes, but speech is a bit muted and overall communication is impacted. I’ve seen on social media a limited amount of masks with clear material around the immediate mouth area for ease of lip reading – especially useful for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing and for interpreters. Though a fully clear mask would be that much more desirable and reliable for getting the message across, since ASL relies not only on signs but also facial expressions. Another hurdle in this on-going race while time stands still, one day blends into the next, and even feeling fortunate to continue working, TGIF doesn’t quite hold the same meaning. But it was a beautiful sunny spring day and, social distancing aside, the park felt alive.
Honestly, I feel alive while I’m teaching too. Who wouldn’t, with those sweet faces looking back at me, and those little hands signing along with me… my boys used to be that little! They were my first students and my inspiration to develop and continue directing this special program. While I have a love-hate relationship with technology, I’m grateful to have our families at Baby Fingers taking classes live on line with me and our teaching team. So even while we are practicing social distancing we can look forward to being together, rain or shine.
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