Let’s have a year without fear

By Peggy Zabicki

Your correspondent in West Lawn

3633 W. 60th Place • (773) 504-9327

Happy New Year! I am looking forward to a year without fear. So many people are paralyzed with the fear of getting COVID-19. They are missing out on so many opportunities for joy and happiness. It is a shame to let these fears overwhelm your life.

I had COVID-19 well over a year ago. I was a bit tired and had a cough and headache. My symptoms lasted about a week or so. I made sure to stay inside my home for three weeks. I did go outside to my backyard one day. On my worst day, I raked leaves in my backyard, gave my hubby a haircut and cooked dinner.

My hubby had COVID-19 at the same time I did. He was very tired for one day. That’s it. He has a heart condition and recurring cancer. He was tired for one day.

I emphasize that because COVID-19 is rarely a death sentence. In fact, 99% of all people who get COVID-19 recover completely. I am not making light of those who died of the disease. I’m just putting it in perspective.

I send condolences to all who had a loved one who died of the disease. I had a dear friend who died of COVID-19. He was vaccinated but got it anyway. It is sad to think I will never be able to send him a letter or text or call him. However, when I think of my friend, I choose to celebrate his life.

As I understand it, if you get a vaccination, the antibodies you develop will last about two or three months; and so people are now required to get additional vaccinations. I have been tested for antibodies twice. Six months after my COVID-19 infection, I still had antibodies. Fourteen months after having the illness, I still have antibodies. This is my experience, and I just wanted to share it with you.

Our bodies can deal with more than you can imagine. Our bodies are beautifully and wonderfully made. We don’t have to live in fear. Choose instead to live with the confidence that true knowledge brings. Let thankfulness and gratefulness be the center of your thoughts and decision making.

I am truly thankful for Envision Community Services, 4324 W. 63rd St. They recently held their Sixth Annual Operation Giveaway. They collected donations from generous West Lawn businesses and neighbors. More than 500 toys will be given to children at Hurley School.

Thank you to the Midway Baseball and Softball Association. Just days before Christmas, they presented their first Annual Winter Wonderland at Madigan Park. Santa and his elves, along with the Grinch, were there. Santa sat in a cozy and beautifully decorated tent as children got to visit with him.

More than 450 families visited this event and enjoyed treats and snacks. Each child got a very nice toy. Thank you to all who made this happen. It’s all about the children.

Thank you to the Calvary Lutheran Church Seniors for inviting me to their annual Christmas luncheon. I had such a good time. My hubby, Roman, went with me. I think the ladies all liked meeting him. He even offered to give a couple of them some drum lessons.

In addition to 13th Ward Ald. Marty Quinn’s monthly meetings for seniors, the Chicago Lawn (8^th) District Police have monthly meetings for seniors. These meetings are open to all seniors living in the district, which includes all West Lawn and Chicago Lawn and other neighborhoods. The meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. at the police station, 3420 W. 63^rd St. Call the (312) 747-8724 for more information. Officer Debra Preus is in charge of the meetings.

Traditionally, we welcome the new year with a toast. You may drink champagne or any bubbly drink you choose. Bubbly drinks symbolize the overflowing of abundance and joy, which is what I hope each one of you will receive in the coming year.

Cheers!