Five years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the town of Maplewood, New Jersey, is slowly returning to normalcy. However, reminders of the pandemic’s impact linger, notably a caution-yellow marquee at the local movie theater that still reads: “STAY HEALTHY.”
- Maplewood shows signs of post-pandemic recovery.
- Old movie theater displays "STAY HEALTHY" message.
- Pandemic's impact still felt in community.
- Nostalgia triggers memories of lost artists.
- Daily life resumes, but shadows remain.
The pandemic claimed over seven million lives globally, including 1.2 million in the united states. As communities resume pre-pandemic activities, echoes of past struggles remain evident in everyday life.
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected communities worldwide and left lasting scars on many towns like Maplewood. While daily life has resumed with people gathering once again in bars and public spaces, subtle reminders serve as a testament to what was endured during those challenging times.
Statistics highlight the severity of the pandemic’s toll:
- Over seven million deaths globally.
- Approximately 1.2 million fatalities in the United States alone.
As time passes, some may feel a sense of distance from those dark days; however, remnants are found everywhere—from closed businesses to personal items like masks tucked away in drawers. Music also evokes memories; songs by artists who died during the pandemic can trigger thoughts about loss and resilience.
The journey toward healing continues for many individuals and communities as they confront both visible and invisible effects of this global crisis. Despite moving forward with their lives, reflections on what transpired remain an integral part of their collective memory.
The lingering presence of reminders from the pandemic illustrates that while society strives for recovery and normalcy, it must also acknowledge its history and learn from it to build a more resilient future.
