There are so many ways I’ve thought of to start this piece.
I thought about taking the random fact angle: Until recently, I’d heard the word “nasopharyngeal,” but didn’t really know what it meant.
Or the poetry approach. I decided against it because, despite the fact that it always comes to my mind when I find myself actually-really-truly sidelined with illness. Unfortunately, though, Dickinson’s guest who stopped for her when she didn’t have time to stop herself hits too close to home for so many, so I’ll just mention it.
I considered the dialog I shared with the nurse on the phone, starting with the sinking feeling I had when the phone actually rang. They only call for positive cases, or so I was informed by the sign taped to the plexiglass partition in the clinic.
Sub plans. I could have written about sub plans, but I thought that tack might not resonate with my readers who aren’t teachers. (Okay, I’ve only got a few readers, and my mom’s the only one who’s not a teacher, but still, it’s best to be safe.)
Finally, the ten days at home came to mind as a way to introduce the story. Ten days of living in my bedroom with my wife holding down the rest of the fort. It wasn’t a bad time, once I had my nest built, but it’s not something I want to do again.
I’m hesitant (but not hesitant enough, apparently) to add another thought after the “Finally” paragraph, but I could start by mentioning how the emotions around the topic kinda kill the pleasure of even writing about it.
Yes. I think I’ll go with that.
Yet There is Method 
I’m so sorry. But you sure did get a creative slice out of it. I think there may still be a poem waiting to be written. At least for history’s sake. This is a unique time. I hope you weren’t too sick.
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Margaret, I’m looking around for that poem. I know it’s in there, and I know I’ll find it eventually. I wasn’t too sick, but I’m glad to have the experience behind me!
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Oh, no! I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been sick. Since you’re writing and it sounds like the 10 days have already passed, I’m assuming you’re on the mend. I hope so! Either way, I’m sending healing vibes and good wishes your way.
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Molly, I am, indeed on the mend. Thanks for the vibes and good wishes — I appreciate them!
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Eek! Sorry to hear you were ill. But I did love how you managed to describe your experience with possiblities!
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Thanks, Vivian. There was a lot to write about, but it really was difficult getting things going. I’m glad you enjoyed it!
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Oh, no! I’m sorry you weren’t feeling well. Yes, there are all kinds of random thoughts that come to us while we’re in the throes of being sick. Some of them are the way to go when we’re writing, others are…best left to pass. Hoping you’re on the up-and-up!
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Lainie, I’m feeling better every day. So much of the emotion of the last two weeks is better left behind, so that’s what I’ll do!
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I can DEFINITELY understand that. Moving on, moving up =)
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As always Tim your slice is a delight to read — even if the topic itself isn’t. I hope you are doing better (and it seems based on other comments that you are). I think my favorite part was of course the sub plan mention and aside to recognize your audience who might not be teachers — even if that really is only your mother. It was your usual mix of funny and sweet. Thanks for capturing your writing/thought process in a blog form and sharing it today.
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Thanks, Erica! I am indeed feeling better (tired, but better). Sub plans are the worst!
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First of all, I am sorry you got to see this experience up close and personal, but being the scientific type you are, I knew you’d make the best of it, for science. 🙂
Tim, this is brilliantly written. It builds like a wave, gathering in confusion, then breaking on the shores of clarity, finally receding like the worst of the illness eventually did for you. A post full of “yeah, no” that is both teasing and engaging. Well done.
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Karen, I’d rather eat candy bars! Thanks for reading, and for your comments. {smile}
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Yikes! Sorry the virus found you, but I love the way you didn’t write about the experience! 🙂
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Thanks, Mary Lee!
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Sorry your turn came, but thank you for writing about it. As Margaret said, for history’s sake. For our sake, as we reflect on this unique time we are living.
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Diane, I should write more, but it might be a while. I think time might provide some perspective — well, I hope so!
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Gah, your post makes me think of the inevitableness of some things I/we would rather not experience- the list gets longer the more I know…I am glad you are starting to feel better. Sub plans are the worst.
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