Let's talk about COVID-19 (03/16/20)

Let's talk about COVID-19.

So, normally, I don't post about current events. I like to analyze things, mull it over for a while, and most importantly, process my feelings before sharing my opinions.

I am making an exception in this case because I hope to make some points that will help in the here and now during this time of uncertainty.

So, first off, let's talk about fear. When I watch a horror movie, I have realized that the scariest parts are when I don't know what the monster is or what it is capable of. Any scene in the dark, a creature that hasn't been revealed, or a serial killer that hasn't been identified is fear inducing. So, how much more terrifying is it when you're living out a scenario you've never dealt with before in real life? The greatest cause of fear in this situation is the unknown.

Now, fear manifests itself in different ways. Some people may panic, others may laugh and dismiss the threat, while others may get angry at whatever and whoever may be responsible. I'm not here to say that if your reaction has been any of these that you're wrong in how you're feeling. I am asking that you analyze yourself and your mental state and ask yourself honestly if you are reacting out of fear. It's ok and perfectly normal to be afraid. The goal is not to stop being afraid. The goal is to identify that fear and then attempt to make calm and informed decisions moving forward.

Something I see way too much of right now is the sharing of false information. Everyone wants to be in the know and ahead of the curve, and they're sharing before verifying. The way I see it, the only information I need right now is on the CDC and WHO websites and official statements from local authorities. Just about anything else is either derived directly from one of those sources or is not reliable. This is the time for research, not sharing memes. I would go so far as to recommend not sharing anything at all, but that's just me.

Moving right along, let's talk about the jokes. I get it. Humor is important. It relieves stress and helps people get through difficult times, and we need that right now. Please just keep in mind what you're laughing at. That meme about Corona and Lyme might not be as amusing to someone who has lost a loved one. Maybe consider sharing it privately with someone you want to make laugh, not publicly on a social platform with an undefined audience. Just something to think about.

Now, let's address the very valid question of why this is such a big deal in the first place. Why is COVID-19 such a problem when way more people die from the common flu? Here is where I'm going to risk guessing, only because me being wrong or right does/should not affect people's behavior. Please note the ginormous difference between guessing about consequential vs inconsequential information. Now, I would point out that the flu has a vaccine available that people get every year, whereas the coronavirus does not yet. I would think that would make a huge difference in how each one is handled. The flu kills thousands every year in spite of there being a vaccine. Now imagine if there wasn't. On top of that, this particular strain of coronavirus is relatively new, so there are still a lot of unknown factors which is even more motivation to keep it from spreading until they do have a vaccine. So, while most people may be no more at risk from dying from COVID-19 as they are from the flu, the importance of protecting those that aren't equipped to handle it becomes paramount.

Finally, to my friends and neighbors buying firearms and ammo, please, for the love of all things holy, monitor your feelings. While there is always the possible need to defend oneself, there is a much greater need to be responsible, prepared gun owners, and that means getting the training you need to handle that weapon. Buying a gun out of fear is putting yourself in a position with an incredibly high potential of harming yourself, your family, and your neighbors. If you have not trained extensively with firearms, please consider alternative options of self defense. I have owned guns for many years. I have practiced a lot. I would absolutely not feel confident using one in a combat situation. Knowing how the brain reacts to threats, and having experienced tunnel vision several times in my life, I would not trust myself with a gun in a life-threatening situation. Please just do your research.

One final thing, on a more general note. Can we please stop mocking those that we disagree with? I know it's not gonna stop, but I just want to say it again. Sharing that meme, or posting that joke, you're just dividing this country more than it already is. Please stop.

Ok, that's all for now. Echinacea and Coral Calcium. Works wonders.

Peace.