I took this photo from the driver’s seat of my car, basking in the warmth spilling through the open sunroof. It was my first time out of the house in a week, a shock to the system reminding me that it is the smallest things that make us feel like ourselves.
I parked overlooking a bike path, wishing I had dressed for exercise. The drive wasn’t planned. . . I had gone out to the car to fetch a case of water, and it occured to me that if my car sat unused too long, it might not start. Once the engine fired up, it was involuntary: I pulled away from the curb. Escape!
Nowhere to go, nothing to do, but the sun and the air were enough.
My phone rang—unknown number—and I ignored it, because that is what we do. I haven’t been socially distant long enough to crave conversation with a telemarketer.
Voicemail. Huh.
Returning the call, I worried. It had only been a week. . . Was there a problem with my application? Maybe this was an on-the-spot interview, a way to gauge if I could discuss my writing at a high enough level. . .
Instead, I got the best possible news in the midst of this crazy pandemic—not at all what I was expecting. The last time I applied for school, acceptance letters arrived in fat envelopes after months of waiting.
Today a stranger took the time to reach out personally, sharing a celebration over the phone (the way that device was originally designed to be used).
It reminds me that connection matters. Our dreams matter. I jumped with both feet, and the parachute opened. I got a glimpse of the sky today, and it helps me to be hopeful for what is to come.
Running to School 
Hooray! I’m thrilled you got this news. MFA here you come! YAHOO!
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Thank you! So so thrilled.
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Congratulations! I am so happy for your news. Better days to come!
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Thank you! It’s funny how what you notice in the day reflects something bigger in the day.
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What great news! Congratulations!
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Thanks so much!
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Congratulations! See how the sky celebrated with you. Love this line: “I haven’t been socially distant long enough to crave conversation with a telemarketer.” – perfect.
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Thank you, Fran. A couple of weeks from now. . . who knows? 😬
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🤣
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Yay to good news!!! Maybe you should “escape” more often. So very thrilled for you!
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Thank you! Definitely planning more solo outings.
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Hurrah!! Your description of the sky matches the joy you express with your phone call.
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Thank you, Sally. 😁
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