HUGS ARE THE FIRST ones to go. Kisses will be reserved for the ones you’ll die for. Flying smooches, as airborne as they could possibly take off, must land 3 meters away. Handshakes will smell like 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% trust.
The list goes on, you know. Fist bumps will lose their, errrmm, bumps. High fives will now leave you high and dry. Saying “I love yous” will be muffled, coming from behind masks. Asking someone sick to “go home” because “you care” are more gestures than discrimination. If there’s any consolation in this, at least it’s fine not to make beso with people you don’t like in the first place. Not worth the risk, di ba? 
But really, how do we conduct ourselves around friends, family, and loves? How do you prescribe social distancing, doc?
I don’t really know but I hope our connection (and strong Wi-Fi line) remains. Maybe nods will be a thing. And eye contact, yes maybe that will stay. Because “I see you” will always be precious, if not sincere. And that’s enough for now.
I know “social distancing” will test our bonds, as will our sense of humanity. So be careful but be kind. In times like this, the rules have changed but we are social just the same. And if there’s one thing an outbreak is teaching us, it’s how to be humane—now more than ever.
Keep safe, folks! Here’s a virtual hug—I owe you a real one when all of this will go away.
Love,
Pen