Manos Saratsis
My social media: manossaratsis.com
Current city, state, country: Oakland, CA, USA
My profession: Software Engineer
Describe your daily routine before the pandemic and during: The company I work for was largely remote before, but the pandemic has really improved our ability to work from home. I am still in front of a computer screen writing code all day. My usually social coffee breaks are now walking to the kitchen, and my workouts switching a tab in my browser.
This pandemic makes me feel like: Practically and emotionally unprepared for disruptive global events.
This pandemic makes me think: There might be a silver lining to all this. Maybe we will re-appreciate the value of human connection through these tough times.
This pandemic makes me hope/pray for: I hope the service industry workers can stay healthy and employed during the quarantine.
If I had Three Wishes: I wish that the government protects the most economically and socially vulnerable citizens through this pandemic. I also wish that this pandemic renews our faith in science and reason. Lastly, I wish that this pandemic teaches us a thing or two about how to cope with equally disruptive phenomena, such as climate change.
What I think of the government’s response: The federal government is slow. The state government is taking this way more seriously.
Predictions for when this will get better/end: I have no idea about the quarantine, but the effects of COVID-19 will be felt for years to come.
What I have in my fridge/freezer and pantry: Hazelnut milk chocolate, amaro, and other things to satisfy my sweet tooth.
Before this pandemic, my plans for the next 6 months were: Get married and go on a honeymoon. We'll see how that goes!
Ways I’m coping: Doing remote workouts once a day, playing PS4 with old friends, doing happy hours over FaceTime.
Creative things to do with kids: Puzzles? I don't have kids yet, but would think that would be a good way to engage them and keep them away from screens.
General advice/thoughts/anxieties to share with others: Beyond the economic toll of the pandemic, let's not forget the emotional toll it's taking on people of all ages around the world.