I’m starting to feel nostalgic for the pandemic years.
this post was submitted on 29 Jan 2026
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I really miss how everything seemed to just... Slow down.
Before, and after, all of America seems to be constantly running the rat race. Everyone is hurrying, pressing, trying to squeeze as much as possible out of everything and everyone around them. Some of this is desperation from people in unfortunate situations trying to survive, but a lot of it is people who have just been convinced that more consumption = more happiness.
During the pandemic, a lot of people just slowed down and seemed to appreciate what they had. Vehicle traffic was significantly reduced, air quality got better. People decided they don't need luxuries. People got more patient with each other and less concerned with instant gratification. Line at the grocery store? Understandable - it's a pandemic. Missed a deadline at work? Understandable, it's a pandemic. Online order takes a couple weeks to arrive? That's alright it's a pandemic. Restaurant closed? That's alright it's a pandemic.
I wish there was a way to curb consumption without all of the related suffering. Millions of people dying, suffering , and left with long-term complications sucked. But the improved air quality, improved traffic and just general sense of chilling the fuck out and understanding that there's more important things in life than the waiter bringing your food 5 minutes later than you wanted was really nice.
damn I wish I lived in this fantasy. Working food service during the pandemic, all I remember was the MAGAts screaming at me and my coworkers.
The USA isn't the world. Yet.
I still had an in-person job during the pandemic, thankfully not foodservice, but my job supported that industry. I mostly remember envying my housemate who spent most of 2020 living off of the extended unemployment benefits.
After things started reopening, I really realized how much I hate my career.
the civic shutdowns were awesome
I didn't have to go outside, was rewarded for being a weird shut in and the US did not collapse yet.
Yeah, I don't miss the pandemic itself and the risks involved, but I must admit I did like my weirdness essentially becoming commonplace and encouraged haha.
Things are gonna get worse before they get better. How much worse you ask?
Yes.
Between a lot, and a 6 feet under :/
Can't wait for, like, 2030 when we look back on the 2025/2026 era and say "hey. Remember even everything went to shit? That was a crazy time. Glad it's not like that anymore"
This legit made me laugh out loud, thank you for that.