We are all being encouraged to engage in “social distancing.” It reminds me of the advice after 9/11 to “shelter in place.” Also of one of my favorite movies Field of Dreams, where Kevin Costner hears a voice that tells him to “go the distance.” Now I am sure the internet will be full of ideas as to what you can do while we all “hunker down” such as clean out the “Fibber McGhee closet.” (I bet a few of my readers have never heard that term.).
However, I’d like to give you another idea of something to do while you self quarantine or isolate yourself — remember those who are most affected by this national emergency. I begin with the health professionals who’ll risk their own lives to save many, and the service employees who will staff the hospitals and emergency centers. I bet each of you have a list of those whose jobs are to keep us safe while we sit in the comfort of our homes. Do something special for them.
But back to my “Narrow the distance,” consider those who really will be in “lock down” such as people in nursing homes and assisted living where visitors will be stopped at the door and families can’t even take their relative for a drive. Consider those in prisons and jails where health care is suspect at best who no longer can receive visitors and during “lock down” will not receive phone calls or mail. I read today that homeless shelters and soup kitchens are being shut down. How tragic.
Then consider that person who is at their home alone who is living in fear that the virus may knock on his/her door. Ask yourself how to reduce the distance between you and your friends, family, and neighbors.
I believe out of tragedy good things can come to the forefront. Ask yourself how you can reduce the distance while you engage in social distancing.
PS: I have been in self-imposed exile for the last month and a half from social media. I have been posting at the Pew, and my books have been promoted by Celeste, but I have not turned on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. However social media is a great way to “narrow the distance.” During this time, I am going to return to social media just to connect. I will tell you that disconnecting from social media is a healthy exercise. You might try it yourselves, but for the next few weeks do every thing you can to “narrow the distance.”
Its been awhile since I’ve told you simply that you “Pew” lifts me, across several dimensions, and I genuinely thank you for that. Remarkably, we ‘connect’ in numerous ways. I’m thankful for them all.
Proceed young man! I await next week’s messages that I will consume next Saturday morning, which has become my early morning ritual. But fro today, just a sincere thank you, with gratitude for your work. Carry on, go with God. Drakester
Thank You!