Such scary times we are in. Coronavirus is running rampant throughout the world. It’s keeping us housebound and isolated. Not that staying in will stop the spread of the virus, but it will certainly slow it down so we can try to keep up with the treatment of those in need and the supplies needed to treat those infected. Many will make it through unscathed or will get it and survive, especially the younger and stronger people. Being young and strong is not a guarantee that you will survive this deadly virus. It’s important to take this seriously and stay home as much as possible. If it is necessary to go out, take precautions, keep your distance, don’t touch your face, wash your hands, etc. Definitely DON’T go out if you are sick at all. If you need food or supplies let a friend, neighbor or family member pick up and drop off on your porch. On the other hand, don’t be consumed with worry over this covid-19 scare. Worry never helps. It can never make anything better. In fact, I’ve heard that worrying is praying for what you don’t want. Yikes. Let’s not do that!
There is a bright side to this situation. Similarly to after the 9/11 tragedy in 2001, where people responded with unity and were reaching out to each other and helping complete strangers. There was such a strong feeling of nationalism and community and coming together that was inspiring. People are showing their best selves again stemming from this virus and these unsettling times. From simple things like organizing ‘bear hunts’ in neighborhoods, with people putting stuffed bears in their front windows for kids to ‘hunt’ as they go for walks, or people putting pictures of birds for people to look for as they stroll through neighborhoods. Many homes are displaying encouraging messages or jokes in chalk on their driveways. Sweet little ways of reaching out and saying we’re in this together. Neighbors are reaching out to neighbors via the next door app, both asking for and/or delivering needed supplies and services. I am heartened by so many shows of love and solidarity. In a time of social distancing where so many people were already too isolated, it makes me very happy at the outreach of people often to complete strangers.
My husband and I are fortunate in that we can work from home. It’s been a learning curve which is somewhat stressful but allows us to grow and be creative and still be able to provide for our families. So many families don’t even have that option, so seeing people supporting people is encouraging. Of course, we need a solution bigger than this. Families need money to keep food on their table. They have imposed no foreclosures or evictions or late charges on student loans which is a good first cut, but it’s a band-aid on a broken leg. I know this is being worked on and I hope they quickly form some viable solutions for these families in need.
Fortunately, it’s nice enough outside that we can get out and go for walks. It’s been our saving grace. I’m sure, by the number of people we see out walking, it’s the same for them. People are smiling and greeting each other. Families are on their lawns playing corn hole or basketball or catch. Neighbors and friends are reaching out and checking in on others. I even saw a middle aged man the other day in front of a house at the end of a walkway jumping up and down and acting silly, then yelling, “I Love You! I Love You!” There was a woman with two children at the door waving and blowing kisses.
We passed the man as we walked through the neighborhood. He smiled sheepishly and said, “This is how I get to see my grandkids right now.” We laughed. People find a way! We will get through this, if we stay together and support each other and do what we can. Sometimes the simplest things that don’t seem to make any difference, could make all the difference in the world. I’m guessing those two little grandchildren had a much better day after their grandpa staged his theatrical little visit in front of their house. Be strong and don’t lose your sense of community or your sense of humor.