Combatting Covid-19

The impact of the coronavirus on society is undeniable, yet how we react to this crisis today will determine the success or failure of future generations to come.

There are a lot of angry people out there. Their anger is palpable and real. However, as Lincoln so aptly reminded us to defer to the “better angels of our nature,” we must channel our anger into compassion. We must move our focus from those whom we feel must be punished to helping those who are most in need.

One of the problems we have today is that there’s a lot of misinformation out there, a maligning of facts so pervasive, that it makes the process of argument and discussion necessary in a democracy virtually impossible. Oftentimes, the difference hinges on a few qualitative words such as distinguishing between “few” or “many.” Anecdotal references are used to make overreaching blanket assumptions which distort our perception and interpretation of the situation we find ourselves in.

In this hour of need, the ability to openingly and honestly communicate with one another is essential. All our voices need to be heard if we are to weather this storm together. Bombast and vitriol will only inhibit our recovery and healing. The coronavirus pandemic is this generation’s 9/11 moment and will change how we interact with one another forever. There is no undoing the past. The challenge before us is to balance the necessity to address our present needs and concerns, while thoughtfully preparing for the future.

Dear readers, this is what I’m asking you to do. If you disagree with anything I write, please let me know. Your critiques and commentary will be greatly appreciated. Correct my punctuation and grammar if you must, but your feedback is essential if we are to succeed. Our positions on the issues must be tempered to face the challenges of institutional inertia we will combat. And if perchance you agree with my message and find no fault in its presentation, please share it with your friends and colleagues.

The more who know, the more we’ll grow, and we will recover from our troubles together.

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