Surviving the Coronavirus Threat

The Coronavirus is an obvious disaster of galactic proportions.  We’ve been a little slow to react as a people and government.  But that’s just a trait of the average American.  But think back to a week ago.  Could you even imagine canceling the NBA and MLB seasons, canceling March Madness, delaying the Masters, shutting down schools, Disneyland and virtually every other amusement park closing, churches suspending services, and on and on and on?  The obvious answer is no and yet today most Americans are taking this in stride.  They’ve bought into the danger and are reacting accordingly.  Regular life is suspended.  I think most people are hoping for a short-term problem but know in their heart of hearts that it will last longer than that hope.  Most health authorities I’ve heard predict 3 to 6 months.  But we’ll see.

So I’ve been thinking about how to cope with this.  First, arm yourself with information.  The place to start is at the website in the image above.  Most of the news sites have some good info too.  There are a million sources with a million recommendations.  Some seem logical and some have me scratching my head.  So, I thought I’d sit down and draw up my own set.  I’m in no way an expert or a doctor, but I’ve been around a long time and am pretty good at sorting the fly shit from the pepper.  Here are my rules.  Use them if you want.  If not, that’s okay too.

My rules for coping with the Coronavirus emergency—

1. It’s a big and serious deal.  The President has declared a National Emergency and brought the full weight of the U.S. government to bear to combat this virus.  But…we will get through it.
2. Wash your hands…. often.  I know, you’ve heard that continuously.  So, it must be effective, right?  Just do it.  When you can’t do that use hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes.
3. Stay away from large group gatherings, especially if you have health problems.  Just don’t go.  Arrange for a phone call instead.  For small group gatherings practice social distancing.
4. Don’t panic and stay calm.  Remember Gen. Powell’s third rule:  It ain’t as bad as you think, it will look better in the morning.
5. Don’t hoard or buy irrationally.  Our country has unbelievable manufacturing and supply chain capability.  If something is not available in a store today, it will be soon.
6. Help each other.  Reach out to your friends and neighbors to make sure they’re okay.  If you know someone who is a shut-in or has limited transportation capability, give them a call and see if you can help.  Practice kindness.
7. Be patient.  Things won’t get back to normal tomorrow or next week.  But normalcy will return.
8. Don’t look back.  Focus on the future.  The blame game helps no one.  This is a disaster of epic and generational proportions and there were bound to be problems.
9. Have faith in our government and health experts.  Even if you hate Trump with a passion, realize that our state and local government mechanisms are kicking in and they are attacking the problem aggressively.  They are working 24/7 to conquer this problem.
10. There is a lot of economic and personal help available from Federal and State governments.  Make sure you know what applies to you.
11. If you feel ill, call your doctor for advice.  If you’re told to get tested, get tested.  And then follow their advice again.  Make sure all your records are available.
12. We have millions of kids out of school for several weeks.  Parents need to fill the role of teacher.  Make them continue their studies.  If you know some families where both parents work, consider offering to watch the kids while the parents are at work.  Speaking of kids…don’t let this scare them.  It’s a part of life.  They need adults around them to be steady, serious, and calm.
13. We will all be stuck in our homes for extended periods.  Keep busy.  Try not to feel isolated.  Do that job around the house that you’ve been putting off.  Continue your exercise routine as much as possible.  Get out in the fresh air when you can.
14. Turn off the news.  Or rather ration how much you and your family watches.  Too much will only depress you.  Listen to music or enjoy the silence.
15. Same with social media.  When you see people whining and bellyaching and blaming, don’t respond.  It’s not your problem.  Focus on the positive.
16. Spend some time with your God or nature or whatever gives you peace, perspective and forbearance.  Hopefully this will help with providing calming and perspective.