I never had COVID. Few can say that.

Not yet. Someday I will probably not be able to say that any longer.

But I am not a hermit. I go out in public. I meet others.

OK, I admit, I use hand sanitizer a lot. But not a mask for now. Although COVID is ramping up its evil ways in my area of the country.

Assuredly, this is not a phobia, but a practical way of my being in the mix and not mixed up in other’s microscopic cocktail.

I take calculated risks: mostly my reputation and viewpoint, every day.

Here and elsewhere. I stick my neck out. I leave an impression. At least I try. I attempt to offer value and new ways of thinking. I think in new ways from others’ influence. I discuss and meet (virtually for the most part), I question and debate. I compliment and complement others’ ways. I appreciate and take a tiny microbe of each meeting with me to add to my cocktail of knowledge.

I wonder as I am struck by new inputs to an idea, a feeling I have never experienced, a belief I never considered, and act accordingly.

And yes, while I can be stricken, with COVID looking over my shoulder, I persevere and hope to stay one step ahead of it.

Have I tempted fate by saying that?