COVID-19 is in the news and at the top of most everyone’s minds. People are concerned for their health and safety, and for that of their loved ones.
I’m not writing to remind you how to wash your hands, or ask you to stop hoarding toilet paper. Today, I want you to stop and think through some possible scenarios to help you stay safer during these uncertain times when people aren’t behaving normally.
“A person is smart. People are dumb, panicky dangerous animals and you know it,” Tommy Lee Jones’ character Kay famously said in the movie Men In Black.
Following are some fairly universal truths that are in play:
We all feel the pressure of an impending crisis.
We want to stay well and keep our loved ones from getting sick.
We still need food, shelter, and basic necessities.
We don’t like being inconvenienced, and may feel frustrated.
We may also feel stressed and defensive.
This may get worse before it gets better, so please prepare yourself mentally. One simple phrase may be useful in helping you work through some scenarios: “If this, then that.”
For example:
If I’m in a store with a loaded grocery cart and the power goes out, then…
Possible solution:
Since I already have my car keys and phone in my pockets, I grab the flashlight out of my purse and wait a moment. If the lights come back on, I continue with my day. If the power stays off, or people start to get upset, I abandon my basket and leave calmly. I don’t interact with others, and I don’t take anything with me.
Another example:
If my elderly neighbor is afraid to go to the store, then…
Possible solution:
Since I’m a responsible, healthy person who cares about my neighbor, I will take every precaution in getting them the things they need, while minimizing their risk by leaving their groceries on their porch or connecting them with a delivery service that can address their needs, (or any of several other options).
We are practicing social distancing right now. Social distancing. That means we should support our society (our community) by acting responsibly and generously, and taking precautions to keep ourselves and others safe.
Stay calm. Be kind. Be aware and alert, and listen to your intuition. Take action to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
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