Sandwiched
As many of you know, most of the time I focus on my mother for this column. But there’s another “slice” to the sandwich generation I don’t talk about as often – my sons. They’re now young men at ages 19 and 18, with one (Jonathon) returning to IUPUI next month and the other (Jacob) starting at Ball State.
Yes, I’m slightly nervous about them going to college with this virus and all of its scariness, but I’m also grateful that they’re old enough to handle the situation well and wear their masks when they should. I refuse to let fear cripple me and don’t want it to cripple them. They’re both in a chapter of their lives that should be exhilarating, challenging, and fun!
I loved my experience at IU Bloomington, which is one reason why I’m looking forward to going shopping this week for Jacob’s dorm room.
At first I delayed this task, wondering if Indiana’s campuses would indeed open up for the fall semester. Once we got the official word that everything was a “go,” I started searching my memory and Pinterest to put together a good list of recommended items for a dorm.
I’ve gradually been picking up things at Aldi, of all places, and looking for good deals on dorm fridges and microwaves. As I write this, it’s Tuesday, and this evening we’re heading to Big Lots to buy all the other smaller things he’ll need. I’m ready!
Poor Jacob has probably heard me say, “I’m excited to go shopping for your dorm room” about 10 times. He’s also probably rolled his eyes just as often.
I can’t help myself. Why? Because I’m going to do something NORMAL. Okay, yes, the two of us will be wearing masks this evening, but other than that I’m performing a normal task that millions of others are doing this summer to help their children prepare for college.
Aren’t we all yearning for normal things right now? For activities that aren’t filled with fear, violence, etc.? For something non-controversial, fun, and (gasp) laughter-inducing?
Yes, we should continue to be cautious, informed, and work to protect others. We should absolutely be helping to stop racism once and for all (when are we gonna get this right, people?) and bring peace to this world.
But we also need those times that say, “Hey, life goes one and we gotta live it.” Our poor little hearts and minds are crying out for those moments now more than ever. At least I know mine are.
So, this evening Jacob and I are going to pick out extra-long twin sheets, towels, hooks, and dozens of other things. We’ll laugh, joke, and debate about what things are necessities and what things are luxuries. And I absolutely cannot wait.