For the rest of us, life has been changed in massive and small ways. Many people are finding themselves without work, both now and likely for the next couple of months at a minimum. I feel badly for those folks as well. But this makes me think about how unexpected changes can disrupt our lives out of the blue.
I hope that we can come out of this better in some ways. I can’t think of a stronger practical example than this current shutdown for having things in good shape, financially speaking. I know that it is tough not having a paycheck—we’ve been there before. But having finances in order—read no debt, money in the bank, and a plan—makes at least part of this mess more tolerable for us. There is every chance that there will be another hiccup in our lives, whether it be a major one that goes global or a smaller one that affects a family or two. Getting things in order helps to guard against the despair and despondency that can come from this type of scenario.
We are enjoying our collection of board games to help get through some of the long hours. Puzzles are helping us too. I realize the irony of saying this, but spending too much time online while having enforced isolation is probably not good for mental health. I think finding a connection to the other members of your family could be another good thing to come from this mess.
None of us know how long the quarantine will last, but it would also be good for people to stop hoarding food and toiletries. I am fairly certain that TP is not going to become a form of currency any time in the near (or far) future. I have shopped a few times for things that we need for the next few days, but we are not stocking up like the world has ended. If everyone buys a little less, then chances are good that everyone can have enough for the next small bit of time. Besides, buying the grocery store out of perishables that you can’t eat quickly (meat, anyone?) is likely to lead to waste. I know some of that stuff freezes well, but still, think about your neighbors who need to eat just like you do.
So how about we all work together to get through this extraordinary time? And lest I forget, I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of those first responders and health care workers that are truly in the front lines of this epidemic.