COVID-19 has affected us all in different ways this year. Many people have gotten sick or lost colleagues or loved ones. Others have lost jobs or have lingering symptoms of the disease. As an infectious disease epidemiologist, 2020-2021 has been crushingly stressful and tiring for me.
Amateur Radio has been a godsend, though. Using FT-8 to chase DX or pursue WAS has provided much solace, and copying a few minutes of CW has Zen-like qualities for clearing the mind. Listening to POTA operators while working on the weekends has expanded my world beyond the confines of four walls and a keyboard.
I don't know what 2022 will bring, but I do know that our hobby will continue to provide rest and escape from the stressful times. And for that I am grateful.
73, friends.
