During the pandemic for sure, life definitely felt like something out of The Whale, as we were told to stay in our tiny apartments and I only left to take a bright, sunny walk with family or friends in my small COVID bubble.
And now that I am working from home, again I have very little reason to leave my apartment on a daily basis. I do have a patio, so if I want to get some fresh air and bright sun, I do not even need to leave, I can just step outside on the patio without using the front door.
I do have the pleasure of going out most weekends to a local club and reporting back on the event -- the artist, the music, the venue -- as part of my "job" for a media company that has paid me in guest lists and press passes for the last 3 years. But socialization at these events is slim to none, as most people are there to vibe out to the music and dance the night away. Due to the loud music, most of us can't even hear too well when talking at the club, so most of the communication is left for after the event at an after-party if people still have the juice to stay up after the event.
I give hugs and shake hands with the familiar faces and party people I recognize, but it is nothing more than some basic acknowledgment. And forget about seeing any of my contemporaries from high school and early work life as most of them my age are staying in and doing things with their families. I am still living the life of someone 15 years younger, so most of my socialization comes from hanging with my partner's friends and making them my own as well. I could probably use a little less time at the club, and a little more time taking life seriously and dealing with real-world responsibilities... but I'll leave that discussion for a different article.