It seems
we’re living in a dystopian novel. We are faced with food lines and quarantine
for the first time in generations. Our fear grows with each new story about
another facility or public event cancelled.
As a person who has lived in fear most of my life, it is
disconcerting to see the panic surrounding the coronavirus epidemic. We have
lines in grocery stores and shelves are wiped clean, businesses are losing
their livelihoods that depend on direct contact with clients, and even our
friends stand back so many feet while speaking to us.
I understand having to take precautions but running in fear mode
doesn’t do anyone any good and puts stress upon ourselves.
Ideally, those who have contracted
the virus or traveled to foreign countries would self-quarantine, or those
who have any other contagious illnesses would cover their noses and mouths with
a tissue, or we all washed our hands and used antiseptic lotions or wipes.
Basically, if we all used common sense,
there would be no need for mass hysteria.
So we’re not in an ideal world, I get that.
Yet we can move through fear and panic
with
positive right action.
Don’t lose sight of your humanity. Have compassion for others
who are struck not just physically, but financially, because of the virus.
Having come from an impoverished childhood, I can understand how not everyone
can afford to buy bottled water or two large packages of toilet paper at a time
or diapers in bulk. Not everyone can afford to take time off from work.
Whether it’s helping someone with food or basic home
necessities, supporting local businesses, or walking a pet for someone who is
ill, be a stand for peace and calm in a trying time. This will pass, and it
will flow all the easier if we remember to be heart-centered and a part of the
solution.
Share this reminder with anyone who may need it.
