Today, we continue our new series on the importance of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Over the next several weeks, you’ll hear from your neighbors, faith leaders and those in the business community, among others. They’ll share their personal stories – all of them with a simple and heartfelt message: Get vaccinated. Save Lives.
I’ll never forget my intense feelings (somewhat unexpected) as I walked out of the vaccination site, process completed.
First, a deep sigh.
Then, waves of exhilaration.
I knew that I had done my best to both protect myself, and others – and that meant relief.
The feelings went even further, realizing what this would mean for me in so many other ways, and that meant freedom.
Credit: contributed
Credit: contributed
I can plan ahead, knowing I’ll be able to travel. Travel is accelerating, including for several weddings this year (one a postponement from last year’s Labor Day weekend). We all know that multiple venues, in multiple cities, are announcing a required vaccination card for entry. Countries are opening up to those who are vaccinated.
The other day, I headed out on my regular bike ride. While routinely strapping on my helmet, it occurred to me that the bike helmet, like a vaccination, is taking the best possible precaution.
Yes, I avoid cars when biking, but things can and might still happen. The helmet is what I do to take that extra safety step. It’s not perfect, and it’s not the only thing: I still need to stop when it says stop, look out when I’m crossing, and watch the ground for things like random stray rocks.
Being as safe as I can off the bike included the vaccination, and even if it’s not perfect, it’s the best step now so that I can continue to ride and enjoy life.
Cathy Lussiana is a community contributor for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. A retired HR professional, Lussiana enjoys both Atlanta and southwest Colorado, as well as spending time biking, traveling, writing and spoiling her grandchildren.
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