The magnitude of the effects of the corona virus pandemic throughout the world are beyond anything I could have dreamed possible. It’s challenging our medical resources and political systems, while laying waste to whole economies across the globe. We all face the risk of exposure, and until a vaccine is available, no one is immune from it’s dangers. Our best hope has become containment of the virus. We must shelter in place, stay at home, and practice strict social distancing. I believe that our well being depends on this, and I practice it diligently. But I like being proactive, usually employing a ‘best defense is a good offense’ kind of mentality. No matter what the challenge, taking purposeful action makes me feel empowered. I’d also like to reinforce the sense of connection and responsibility to ourselves and to each other.
So, are there things we can do while still conforming to social distancing? There’s plenty.
First of all, let’s stay healthy. Make sure to eat sensibly, exercise, and stay up to date with news about the corona virus. Become a resource for your friends and neighbors, ready with advice and information on everything from it’s symptoms to how to apply for unemployment insurance.
A good start to learn about the corona virus is here:
https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/campaign/stand-together-to-beat-coronavirus/
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
Donate – if you’re able to make a financial donation, organizations that are leaders in their cause can be found in this NY Times article.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/27/smarter-living/coronavirus-charity-donations.html
Consider your local food bank. Feeding America is a network of 200 banks across the country, and 92% of them are experiencing significant increases in demand. They agree that the best way we can support them is with money, but most wouldn’t turn down any donation of non-perishable food. They are also experiencing a crucial need of volunteers. To do whatever you can, go to this website and type in your zip code to find your local food bank.
https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank?mod=article_inline
There is no known end date yet in this fight against the coronavirus, and there are already blood shortages. The Red Cross needs blood and platelet donors to ensure the health of our communities. It’s a safe, easy process that we should consider. Find out more here:
Or, how about treating the essential workers in your neighborhood to a free lunch or snacks? Think of the risks that medical workers, firemen, policemen, EMT Units, Postal workers and the cashiers and folks who stock our supermarkets are taking every day on our behalf. They are heroes, and they deserve to know how grateful we are. Sending a pizza, sandwiches or anything from your favorite restaurant will let them know that they’re appreciated, and also provide needed help to your local businesses.
Most importantly of all, be a friend to those around you. When you give a little of yourself by just listening to their hopes, fears and frustrations, you give them a sense of caring. It costs nothing to let someone know that they matter. Ask neighbors how they are doing – especially the elderly – and see if they need anything. Maybe you could pick up that prescription or help with shopping. Or make someone a mask. Whatever it is, when we give of ourselves, we are reaffirming our own humanity. Someone once said people may not remember what we said or what we did, but they will never forget how we made them feel.
So those are a just few ideas, but there’s so much more we can do. I hope you’ll send me your suggestions so I can share them with others. Together we make the difference.