At the time I am writing this, phase one of the Alberta government’s plan to relaunch the economy has just gone into effect. As well, allowable outdoor gatherings have increased from 15 people to 50, as long as proper physical distancing is maintained.

Some are embracing the loosening of restrictions; others are being more cautious. I fall into the latter category. My philosophy of the situation can be summarized as: just because I can, doesn’t mean I should.

But I totally understand that others have been frustrated with what they perceived as restrictions on their freedom and a desire for things to get back to normal.

However, normal as we knew it is not the “new normal” that we speak of now. Many of the restrictions that were and continue to be in place were not only for individual safety, but for the protection of others, particularly those in vulnerable groups who have to continue to self-isolate.

COVID-19 is still out there. The virus doesn’t care if we’re angry or frustrated. It will remain a threat until there is a viable vaccine and treatment options.

No matter how much we want to go back to the way things were, that world is gone – whether we like it or not. It’s a different world than it was just a few months ago. What that world will look like in the weeks and months to come, largely rests with us and our choices. Choose wisely.