What have we learned during this crisis?
A global pandemic that shuts down many businesses and has many others working from home should be considered an opportunity to learn – more about ourselves, our family and friends and our community. Have we done that? I’m not sure that I have done as much of that as I would like to. And that is simply my own fault.
Yep, I’ve written a few notes and sent out a few cards but nowhere near the number that I wanted to. The working from home mixed in with a few days at the office is challenging as I am sure it is challenging for many of you reading this column. And there are many reasons for that – perhaps you have little ones – or not so little ones at home that you are schooling. Anyone think that is easy? Anyone think this is easy for teachers? No way. They deserve our appreciation and an even higher degree of respect during this crisis. As parents, you have the opportunity right now – at home – to reinforce with your children how valuable and important of a role their teacher has in their life. Use it wisely.
We absolutely must respect the anguish, disappointment and tears from the class of 2020 as their world has been turned upside down by this virus. I think deep down we all knew that school would not be resuming this year and that proms and graduations in the true sense of the word would be cancelled to maintain the social distancing rules. Telling these young adults that this will not seem so important 10 or 20 years from now is probably not the right approach. They are living in the moment and for all of you out there with a senior, we feel for you.
We also know that in most cases, somehow, some way, schools will figure out a way to have these events, but in a different manner than we are used to. Utilizing technology or a different venue would all be on the table I imagine. For all the young ladies that have their prom dress already purchased – there has to be a way even if in a virtual manner – to show the family and friends.
One thing is for sure – we are figuring out – and have figured out – new ways of doing things. Whether it is supporting your favorite restaurant by getting some carry-out or helping a neighbor by getting some extra groceries during your shopping trip. Where you wear a face mask and maintain that social distancing!
Another thing that we need to do during this crisis is to respect those that are taking this as seriously as what it needs to be taken. In other words, don’t make fun of those that wear a face mask, gloves or gosh – actually avoid you in a store or otherwise to maintain the six-foot social distancing. The person that you think is over-reacting just might have someone at home that is vulnerable, or they may be a new parent, have a close friend or extended family member that is not in good health or just might be a new grandparent. All of this will be over at some point and we will look back and think to ourselves, “I could have done this or that better during this event.” So, why not do it now?
Category: Mark's Musings, Opinion
