We are staying home.
We’ve been here for almost a week now because Ann is one of “those people.” You know the ones. Those people with an underlying health issue. Those people with a suppressed immune system. One of those people who could become seriously ill, need hospitalization, and even die if exposed to the coronavirus.
Those people need your help to stay safe and live. And all you have to do is stay home when you don’t NEED to be out.
Over the past few days, we’ve seen photos, videos, and witnessed first hand people of all ages (but mostly young people) gathering in groups for what us old people would consider “non essential” reasons: birthday parties, movies, youth sports practices, St. Patty’s Day celebrations at the bar, spring break at the beach, and the like.
We don’t understand it.
We try not to judge.
But just for a time during this worldwide pandemic, could we ask people who are participating in non-essential activities to consider who “those people” most at risk really are?
- Those people are already battling serious illnesses.
- Those people want to see their grandchildren grow up.
- Those people need to do their jobs as nurses and doctors.
- Those people are first responders.
- Those people run the grocery store, and the pharmacy, and the gas station.
- Those people pray for you and your generation.
And what about those other people? The ones you know.
- Those people who made sacrifices to meet your needs.
- Those people who took care of you when you were sick.
- Those people who went to your games and cheered you on.
- Those people who taught you in school.
- Those people who helped you pay for college.
- Those people who cooked your favorite dish for you.
- Those people who taught your Sunday School class.
- Those people who have forgiven you.
- Those people who will always love you unconditionally.
We keep wanting to scream, “It’s not about you, it’s about those people!”
But the truth of the matter is, IT IS ABOUT YOU.
YOU have the power to help.
YOU have the power to influence others.
YOU have the power to flatten the curve.
And by not changing your behaviors, you also have the power to harm.
How will you choose to use your power?
– Ann and Steve
