Like most of you probably, I am marking time looking to the future with both optimistic anticipation and some trepidation. It is Sunday, January 17, 2021, as I write these words and think about what the coming week will bring for all of us and the country. For me, at least, it is a heady time promising change for the better.
The big news, of course, is the upcoming inauguration this Wednesday of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as president and vice-president. Their administration offers hope for a return to stability and respect for our democratic traditions regardless of political parties or differing views on a myriad of pressing issues.
Many of us however have concern for what will happen in the interim. Given the recent events, what will the outgoing president do until his term expires at noon on the 20th? It may be an interesting and long two and a half days. Let’s hope that Monday, MLK Day, is a good omen for all.
In the meantime, the Covid pandemic rages on amid our apparent failures to adequately accept its reality or make proper precautions to defeat it. The allocation and distribution of the two vaccines has been willy-nilly and disappointing. The news brings stories of the confusion and despondency of people in their attempt to secure the vaccine. I have friends who have secured appointments for the vaccine only to be told later that their appointments have been cancelled due to insufficient supply. Many can’t get through to authorities, period. Some states such as Georgia have been especially slow to get the vaccine out. Fortunately, my wife and I managed to get an appointment for the vaccine this coming Friday. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
The week of January 18, 2021, will be a test of what America is all about. Still keeping my fingers crossed…