During this time of staying at home in an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, what have been the unexpected pleasures, the silver linings in what might otherwise be a loss-filled experience?  The most obvious thing for me has been the experience of not driving.  Previously I struggled to have one car-free day a week.  Now I only drive once a week, if that. In the more than two weeks of the "shelter in place" order I have driven only twice, for less than 10 miles total.

I appreciate being able to walk everywhere I need to go, which is basically out in the neighborhood to get exercise or into the Village for an essential errand like food shopping at the Farmers Market.  With extra time on my hands, I have expanded my walks to explore new places.  I have tackled some walks that previously felt too long or too hard, such as the Public Stairs walk in the Merriewood neighborhood or a trek up to Skyline Boulevard to visit one of our East Bay Regional Parks.  It turns out the walking route is also a better way to drive.  And without the ability or inclination to drive to my usual favorite parks I have discovered some beautiful spots very close to home, like the meditation garden at a nearby church.

Doing so little driving makes me feel good about not polluting the air with carbon emissions.  I feel more grounded and more in harmony with Nature's pace which as Angeles Arrien said is "slow to medium."  My nervous system no longer has to deal with the challenges and stresses of driving:  traveling at 65 miles an hour, watching out for other drivers, getting stuck in traffic, looking for parking, and worrying about getting a ticket if the meter runs out.  All that energy is freed up for more creative things!

The notice in my e-mail inbox about "Your Honda Civic is due for service" will just sit there for the duration.  And who knows?  Maybe I will drive a lot less when this whole virus scare is over.