Coronavirus won’t dampen the American spirit
Going shopping during social distancing orders can be like watching professional boxers bob and weave and jerk their bodies right or left anytime shoppers get close to each other.
Because many people wear face masks and gloves, shopping locations can look eerier than a costume party in the Twilight Zone. But reality is knowing that everyone is simply trying to stay healthy and obtain provisions.
Today, we live in a strange nation, a worrisome nation, a nation full of miseries; and yet, a nation full of caring people. Many citizens are afraid to check their mail, answer their door bell, and many have washed the wrinkles off their hands. Others go about their day the same as they did months ago by working or sharing friendly greetings, humorous quips, or stories about past or current events.
Americans have a lot of innovative spirit and most citizens care about what happens to their neighbors. By working together, people can unleash gigantic amounts of human potential and keep the American spirit thriving. There’s plenty of American knowledge and technology available to help sustain lives and make many lives better.
This is evidenced every day on social media and television when stories are shared about individuals or companies serving food or making life-saving tools for heroes.
Only a few are seeking recognition for their actions, whereas most are unsung heroes wanting to be a part of the solution. They’re coming out of the woodwork to offer needed products and answers for many issues that are discouraging to our nation. It’s anger, fear, survival instinct, love and the desire for a life of normalcy that triggers so many to give so generously.
Coming together or going the extra mile seems to be reminiscent of Americans joining the military and women filling vacant jobs during World War II. It’s also similar to the lines of people donating blood after the World Trade Center disaster.
In the entire scheme of our lives, the coronavirus shelter in place order is only a pause. When things get back to normal, most people will quickly forget that their daily routine was interrupted. Events like recitals, balls games, dinning out, school, and work will replace boredom and chaos. For some, things like missed graduations, weddings, proms and funerals will forever stain their memory.
Most Americans haven’t reached the breaking point because they sense normality coming soon. Not a living soul can dictate how anyone else feels. Since most people have a sanctuary where they can retreat to at any time, life remains sane. They are not bound by the emotional strain or tension that the coronavirus offers because Americans are strong.
Sheltering in place can be stressful and every citizen reacts differently. But anxiety, fear and worry about the safety of loved ones who are temporarily separated is omnipresent.
People should relax by taking deep breaths, stretching, meditating or engaging in fun hobbies. With social distancing in mind, people should talk to anyone they encounter as often as possible about our strange world. Some will keep journals about their experience and a few will even write a book.
A small number of people are dumbfounded and sad about being stuck indoors and may want to injure themselves or others. If so, they should be urged, but not pressured, to discuss or write about how they feel. For these people or anyone who abuses drugs or alcohol, faces extreme stress, or has trouble sleeping, there are plenty of health care providers who are ready to help. They also assist with issues like overeating or the lack of ability to handle routine daily activities. A few people will find it difficult to get back in their groove when life returns to normal. Available to anyone at any time are 911 operators as well as caring people at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
Churches and businesses are past ready to be packed, and everyone is ready to work, resume a routine and reduce cabin fever. In 1970, Lynn Anderson sang, “I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden.” In 2020, America has been promised a rose garden. It may look different, but the American Spirit still exists, it’s strong, and it will flourish.
Charlie Sewell is a retired Powder Springs police chief. His book “I’d Rather You Call Me Charlie: Reminiscences Filled With Twists of Devilment, Devotion and A Little Danger Here and There” is available on Amazon. Email him at retiredchiefsewell@gmail.com.