COVID 19

CO

VID-19 and the outpouring of fear and concern has swept throughout our Nation. With the increasing numbers of those affected nationwide, there is an obvious cause for immediate concern. Leaders from across the globe are all racing for answers while encouraging us to take preventative and precautionary measures to halt the spread of this virus. For some, this is the first time they have ever seen anything like this. For others, it’s alarming because of the way that it has spread and the fact that it poses a great threat, especially to our Senior Community.

I may not be a medical doctor, but thankfully I have some of the best doctors around working with me. As a leader in this community, I have had the honor of speaking and interacting with Congressman Raul Ruiz, MD and several other healthcare professionals in an effort to better understand the virus and how to protect and prevent it from spreading. Many may not know, but I have a compromised immune system myself and a somewhat rare lung disorder. So, to read that a virus is spreading like wildfire and attacking respiratory systems, it’s definitely an eye opener. But I believe. I believe that one day soon this will be behind us. I believe that we have some of the greatest researchers in the world, and that these researchers will soon have a solution. That part is in their hands, but there are a few things we can do as a community while we wait.

However, I am making an appeal. Let’s change the narrative and show the direct opposite of what media and social media outlets are showing us. I’m asking that we remain considerate, especially when shopping for groceries and household supplies. Please understand that when one or more persons engage in over-shopping (also known as panic shopping), many others may not be able to find the things they need. Remember that for our seniors (many Senior Centers have closed their doors), this virus is extremely dangerous for them and they may be unable to leave home for groceries themselves. There isn’t a need to hoard items, as there is enough for everyone and shelves are being restocked daily! Consider our homeless also, even more now that the weather has been changing and becoming rather unpredictable. Many residents are now forced to choose between working and staying home to care for their children as School District’s have announced that schools will be closed indefinitly Let’s show appreciation to our grocery store workers who tirelessly work around the clock to sanitize the stores, stock the shelves, and smile. Consider the anxiety that our students are currently experiencing, especially our graduating seniors who may not get to experience a prom or even graduation. And finally, our City Government leaders, Police and Fire Departments, spiritual leaders, educators and medical professionals. They are all under immense pressure and they really need our thoughts and prayers. 

LET’S GET THROUGH THIS

“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals.” – Jean Vanier

This is our charge… LOVE. Let’s love each other. I believe that the only way to get through this is by becoming the neighbor that we desire to have.