May stock markets recovered further, lifting portfolio balances again. This month’s leaders were small company stocks, with double digit returns. International stocks and all sectors of the U.S. stock market contributed to the rise. Only the U.S. technology stock sector and bonds are ahead year-to-date with major stock indices still down 6-11% from January 1.
How well the country comes out of self-isolation really determines how quickly we recover from the recession. Wearing masks and avoiding large gatherings are key to limiting contagion. Adequate testing and tracing would control a second surge of disease and the fear that keeps us from returning to normal. Reasonable caution is critical to the recovery of the nation’s (and the world’s) health and economy. Let us not lose the progress we have made. So much is at stake.
The sudden summer bursts blooms everywhere. As if waiting permission, warmth has signaled the start of a parade of summer blossoms. Salads tucked with fresh herbs are again on the lunch menu. Sequestered life brings details to the surface. Joy in little things restores a balance to our consumer-driven culture. It is those we spend our days with, in person, in contact, and in thought, that make life full and rich. There can be no satisfying life for anyone while our longstanding laws and customs regard some people as dispensable and others dear.