I started this blog the day the shelter in place mandate took effect here in San Francisco, and the original intent was to blog daily for the length of that first mandate (21 days). As it was extended, I decided to continue for another 21 days. Today, at the end of those 21 days, the mandate was officially extended to May 30.
So, my question to myself is, what comes next? I had hoped initially this diary would cover a month or two, at most, but at this rate it will be a minimum of 10 weeks, and most likely it will be more.
Diaries are personal by nature, and I’ve certainly shared with you many of the things I’ve been going through as I navigate through these unfamiliar waters. But I’m also mindful that in making a diary public, I don’t want it to just be about me – my hope is that my entries provide readers an interesting point of departure, or a new perspective, or a laugh, or a moment of reflection, or a brief distraction, or a comforting, daily constant.
My question to you: should I extend my daily blogging until May 30?
I know I know, that’s a question I should really answer for myself, but I just couldn’t resist putting it out there.
My task: answer a long and involved email from a friend who is struggling with a relationship during this lockdown. It’s a lot to think about and I’ve been hesitating to answer because I don’t know if I can be helpful in any way. (Not done yet, although I have a few hours before bed…)
Coronavirus Diary: Mental Health in a strange new world 
Yes please.
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Suggestion… Maybe every second day, gives you a little more flexibility 🤔
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please continue writing through May or however long it takes. It is nice to hear your well written perspectives on how the quarantine affects us all.
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i think, if nothing else, it’s important to document this time. I enjoy your posts! But also, you may be glad later that you kept going.
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I would be grateful, if you continue writing the blog for some time, Sarah. It is up to you and your plans. I agree with Graeme that every second (or third) day is fine, too.
The “done!” section – Love It.
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Sarah, like a good book, your diary inspired your readers and me more than you know. My feelings are reflected in a blog I posted on April 24th. on FB, entitled “The Ripple Effect:
In our exchange of ideas, comments, and personal experiences, we all shared our personal stories and each night became a gathering of virtual friends from across the country; a memory that will resonate with me for years to come. Thank you for sharing your personal feelings. I hope we can stay in touch when your mandate is finally ended. Our comments weren’t just about you, they were about all of us. My hope is you will extend blogging until May 30th. and remember all of us who made it so interesting. Your photo of the beautiful flowers becomes an analogy of the beauty in sharing our lives with others.
The Ripple Effect
Everything we say do and think affects those we share our lives with; and their reactions, in turn, affect others. As the effect of a seemingly insignificant word passes from person to person, its impact grows and can become a source of great joy, comfort, inspiration, anxiety, or pain.
Our thoughts and actions are like stones dropped into still waters, causing ripples to spread and expand as they move outward. The impact we have on our world is greater than you could ever imagine, and the choices we make can have far-reaching consequences.
We can use the ripple effect to make a positive difference and spread waves of kindness, laughter, and joy, especially during these challenging times of obscurity, insecurity, and fear. The choice remains ours for a better future for all of us to enjoy…
W
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‘My question to you: should I extend my daily blogging until May 30?’
You should Maestra because Clint will turn 90 on this coming May 31and he would surely be saddened.
Seriously the director’s final cut (or conductor’s final cut) surely belongs to you but we all have an advantage for being in the flow of time with you & contribute a little bit in your adventures.
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