The coronavirus pandemic has altered life as we know it, forcing us to adapt on the fly. But adaptation begets innovation and unexpected, interesting phenomena. In these temporary times, it’s important to further reinvent social interaction.

CDC social distancing suggests staying at least six feet apart. Maintaining a safe distance is especially important around the elderly. Fortunately, some have adapted well to the turbulence of our times, engaging in wholesome fun without sacrificing safety.

On the right side of the road lies Kira Neely, on the left we have her wonderful 81-year-old “Papa,” Marvin.

“ABC” by The Jackson Five occupies the airwaves. Fittingly, a song her grandfather probably knows. Kira starts with a flurry of acrobatic maneuvers, using a thick wooden stick as a prop.

She catches some serious air at points, twirling around the pole about a dozen times. Papa watches intently, amazed and plotting his next move. It’s going to be hard to top her quirky performance.

Supplementing the unique outdoor dance floor, the background truck’s lights flash throughout the entirety of the dance battle.

Kira’s introductory performance lasts for a solid 14 seconds. Upon completing her final twirl, Kira proceeds to point at Papa.

Papa turns towards the camera with an eager expression. It’s his time to shine. What’s next? What’s he got in the bag?

Papa lays down a series of sporadic sequences, running to and fro with intermittent hand claps. The choreography’s about as corny as you’d imagine, but that’s okay – it’s smothered in a thick layer of love.

Kira loses it laughing. She’s embarrassed for him, and it’s so cute.

Papa’s moves are seriously ridiculous, but in an endearing way. He’d never win a single dance competition – ever – but he clearly loves his granddaughter. They’re both overjoyed.

Kira and Papa have adapted well to social distancing norms. The coronavirus hasn’t slowed them down one bit. Her mom Sherrie wrote the following on the video’s Facebook post:

“Kira loves her “Papa” so much and they’ve now started daily “dance offs” since the virus is keeping them separated. My Dad is turning 81 years old next month and I’ve never seen him dance, but he’s really putting forth great effort and has some special moves!!!!”

Papa storms back to his starting spot, slowing down and proceeding to signal Kira’s turn. No holding back.

She returns with an array of sporadic, stylized choreography. Her moves are even more energetic and gravity-defying than before.

She’s got the moves. I wonder if dancing’s in her future?

Kira’s always been close to her grandparents, both Marvin and “Grandmama.” They’ve been around practically all of Kira’s life. The last few months have been somewhat of a downer, but they’ve continued to interact, doing anything they can think of to stay close.

Young Michael Jackson’s voice continues to chime, propagating throughout the neighborhood. I’m sure the residents of the houses in the background can hear the music. There’s a free show going on right outside.

It’s easy to get bored in the age of lockdowns and quarantines. Many feel isolated and withdrawn, disconnected from friends and family. Make an effort, keep things fresh, and use your imagination. Kira and her Papa have been inventing new ways to keep things fun and interesting, easing the difficulty of the current reality.

Remember to stay safe and healthy. Life in quarantine is life, too.

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Source: Spotlight, CDC, Sherrie Neely