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March 10, 2020

Enter stage (out of) left (field): Reality

I know we're all following developments as the coronavirus endeavors to spread. It saddens me, however, to hear or read about nearly hysterical stockpiling.

Yes, this thing is potentially serious but the bunker mentality that seems to be emerging as a side effect might be just as pernicious...

I'm as self-interested and -protective as anyone but would hope I'd have been more empathetic in this situation at a small market that a friend describes: "...was surprised to find they still had some hand sanitizer on the shelf. I mentioned that to the person at the checkout, who said she needed to get some after she rang me up. Just then the woman behind me spoke up and said “not any more”. She bought every last bottle that was on the shelf. She also said that she already had some at home."

I'm for hunkering not bunkering. Maybe I'll have bumper stickers made!

I'd like to think I'd have shared a bottle or two with that cashier. Last I noticed each of us only has two hands. Maybe extend one in compassion? After all, the customer would have effectively protected not only the cashier but exponentially countless others...potentially and in the long run the customer herself out and about in the community over the next several weeks. Just saying...

Here we are collectively confronting something that observes no borders, is indiscriminate in whom it chooses, and frankly is trying to survive at our expense. That's what it does. Rock. Hard place. We'll be okay if we're smart. We can be okay in the collective sense as well.

"And still she persisted." I'm re-purposing that as a rallying cry for good. Persistence in the face of uncertainty. Acquiescence in the face of necessity. Sustenance and succor in the face of both.
 
Leading with an open hand...just remember to wash before and after. 
 
Be well, Everyone.

(Note: I hope you read this as intended not self-righteous sermonizing. I do like to hear myself talk but... And that's a metaphorical hand of course.)