The ongoing pandemic.  My husband I like to travel and planned that for our retirement years.  I feel we have lost a whole year already and only have taken one trip.  We usually do 5-8 trips each year.
I appreciate that I had someone to talk with who understands how I am feeling.
No improvement needed.  This is an excellent survey.
The chat window was a little small
No
Good day, how are you doing?
assistant
Question
Not too well. I have been depessed because of our state shut down and today an old friend from unior high school passed.
user
null
Sorry to hear that. I absolutely understand, it's been hard on most people having to deal with the current state of affairs and losing people. Do you think things will improve?
assistant
Reflection of feelings,Question
Thank you. I know we are all in the same predicament. I think things will improve, but not for a year or more.
user
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I agree. I lost a teacher some time ago and I've been thinking a lot about when things might improve. A year seems plausible. Since it's so hard, are there things you think you can do to cheer yourself up?
assistant
Self-disclosure,Question
A year is a long time when y A year is a long time when you are 76 years old. I just want to enjoy the rest of our lives - my husband and me - and travel until we can't enjoy it any longer.
user
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Sorry to hear that. It is really tough being restricted to not travelling. I call my parents (around your age) about once a week.
assistant
Restatement or Paraphrasing,Self-disclosure
Thank you so much for your support. It is tough and there is nothing to do.
user
null
Do you have family you can talk to? Have you considered volunteering? I ask because my neighbor bakes for the local food bank and it helps her.
assistant
Question,Providing Suggestions
Yes, I do, but I can't talk to my son in Florida because he lost his job and havng tough time. I don't feel like I should enjoy my life when he is suffering. We may need to help him financially. I use to volunteer at a nursing home, but I am afraid to now with the virus
user
null
That is reasonable. And it sounds like you are doing all you can. Could you teach from home online and keep yourself safe? Or perhaps provide your son financial support?
assistant
Affirmation and Reassurance,Providing Suggestions
I am trying to do what I can for my son and also to help so I don't get too down and depressed.
user
null
You are doing everything you can. Some things are just beyond our control. And we are all struggling, so please know you are not alone in your feelings.
assistant
Affirmation and Reassurance,Reflection of feelings
Thank you - that makes me feel some better. You are right and I learned more than ever that some things I con't control. Yes, we are all struggling and trying to get this this pandemic. I am sorry that we are all going through this and pray it will get over soon.
user
null
I couldn't agree more. We will get through this with each others help.
assistant
Reflection of feelings
Yes, we will get through this - it helps so much to have others support. I do thank you very much for talking with me today. Have a great day!
user
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