When stay-at-home orders went into effect almost three months ago, just about everything became complicated and uncertain. Meeting up with family and friends became a health hazard, grocery shopping required masks and gloves, and for couples who weren’t cohabitating, blossoming romances came to a screeching halt. In this week’s Modern Love essay, the pandemic threatens to derail a promising relationship when Sarah Rutledge’s “quarantine boyfriend” loses everything, including his livelihood and access to his son.
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This is a dark and devastating time in the United States, especially for black Americans. The pain that black communities are experiencing right now is an all too familiar one, as systemic racism, oppression and violent acts against people of color have long been an issue in this country. Many of you may be wondering how you can support black friends, neighbors or colleagues. There are many ways to be an ally, and here’s how to start the conversation (but we suggest listening and educating yourself first).
Even though we’re not out of the woods when it comes to the spread of the coronavirus, I think it’s safe to say that we could all use a hug right about now. The good news is that scientists say that the risk of exposure during a brief hug can be surprisingly low. Here’s how to safely embrace your loved ones.
Be safe, be kind and hug someone if you can.
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