Tell Your Story Spring 2022 Writing Contest — Finalist
A Widow’s Walk in COVID Times
The alarm sounds and drags me up to turn it off. I try to resist the temptation to check my messages, as they are sure to postpone my walk. My exercise gear is all in one place, ready, removing excuses as they mill through my mind.
Excuses depend on the day and time of year.
• It poured rain and there are too many puddles.
• It’s cold and windy out there!
• It’s late; the sun’s going to be right in my eyes.
• Gosh, I hardly got enough sleep last night!
What’s no longer an excuse for me is a job to get to, or a major deadline, as a rule. No longer do I expect to hear my husband asking, “Going for a walk?” He’s no longer here.
Ever since my Refugio (yes, my Refuge) passed away and, months later, I decided to retire, gumption has won over excuses more frequently. The loneliness of the house drives me to the streets, where I occasionally cross the path of others walking dogs, jogging, or just heading to work that cannot be done online.
Then COVID clinched it, with no more outings or café time with friends. No other escapes to look forward to. No parties, meetings, or trips. The simple act of walking…
