Sheltering in Place--I've Done This Before

Years ago when I had what they then called the German measles, I was confined to my darkened bedroom. At that time, it was thought this was necessary to protect the stricken child's eyes. Mother hung a blanket over my window. Meals were brought into me. I only was allowed out of bed to go to the bathroom.

The worst was that I wasn't allowed to read. My only entertainment was listening to the radio. Fortunately during that time period there were soap operas during the day time, and lots of mysteries to listen to in the evening.

Of course no friends were allowed to visit, and I only remember my mom coming into the room. I have no idea where my sister slept as our home only had 2 bedrooms.

I think this lasted for two weeks.

When I was eleven, I had rheumatic fever and was confined to bed during the last half of the 6th grade. This time I could have visitors but could not get out of bed even to go to the bathroom. But, hooray, I could read. My mom brought me lots of books from the library, and people gave me comic books. I had a big box full of them.

I also was allowed visitors and my teacher, Mrs. Brown, came once a week and tutored me in math and gave me lessons to do. My girlfriends visited, as did my girl cousin who lived down the street.

The comic books brought two boys from my class who visited on a regular basis. I don't think they talked to me much, they read my comic books.

The doctor finally let me out of bed, and allowed me to go to my 6th grade graduation. I remember that I had a new dress to wear and a beautiful cape to wear over it. That's when we got our report cards and I received all A's! I'm sure that was the only time.

I lived through those episodes of staying home, and I'll live through this one too.

Praying that all of you stay well--this will be over, I promise.

Marilyn