As the U.S. grapples with a major spike in corona cases in the South and the West, the European Union has banned Americans from traveling to Europe. This not only severely impacts the world's health but also the economy for Europe and America. We need a National Approach to this pandemic and fast. Even as cases surge in California, Texas and Florida, the administration has scaled back funding for federal testing and closed 13 testing sites. There are still not enough tests, not enough ICU beds, not enough PPE. How can that be after watching what has occurred in NY, NJ, and Conn.? We are the only country that is not capable of flattening the curve. We have failed. What does it mean that we cannot engage in self sacrifice to keep our people safe? Are we that selfish?
Trump is not exhibiting any acceptance that we are now the leading country with the most cases of Coronavirus in the world. The United States should DO better; we should BE better. This is all about public cooperation-everyone must comply. We must all wear masks when going out anywhere. We must practice social distancing all the time, not some of the time. Social Distancing is still not being taken seriously. We need to respectfully distance at outside social gatherings, and not make others feel uncomfortable by approaching them. We must wipe down surfaces and wash hands frequently. We can not let our guard down. This is far from over. So you think it's not happening to the elderly anymore because 17-35 year olds are the new target? Well, guess what? The 17-35 year olds visit their parents, grandparents, professors, and restaurants where they spread the disease unknowingly.
Governor Phil Murphy has decided to not resume indoor dining. Understandably, the restaurant owners are angry and upset by this decision. But, the fact is that when dining indoors, your risk of getting the virus is 20 times higher. He did the right thing, He is saving lives.
I recently had a lovely short respite from our everyday life. We went up to the Vineyard. Every single person I saw wore a mask. If you happened to leave your home and forgot to wear your mask, you were the pariah. Whether they were outside, walking alone, or entering a store (where you must sanitize before entering and they limit the quantity of people to 4 at a time) a mask was ALWAYS on. All outdoor restaurants had curbside pickup and if there were tables, they were spaced well over 6 feet away. They have it right. They respect each other and are keeping themselves and others safe.
We aren't capable of stopping our everyday lives. It is not a realistic expectation. There is work, camp, school, errands, sports, recreation, etc. We need to have positive leadership with role models in our government who will wear masks, not hold indoor rallies, or attend indoor choir performances. We must promote the same rules for each and every person and from state to state. We need to get back to some normalcy. Look at England, Italy, Spain....they have figured it out. They flattened the curve.
So what next? My grandchildren have started camp and are interacting with many kids. My children have dinner with friends outdoors. My club has outside dining. Swimming pools and beaches are open. My hair and nail salon have opened. Do I sit next to the kids? Do I get hair color or a blow out at a salon? How often should I go to the grocery store? Do I venture up to the club for a meal? Is it ok to go to the dentist or podiatrist? Truthfully, I am petrified. I want to do all of this, but I am very wary, because I am old. Because I have an elderly mom. Because I want to keep my husband, children, grandchildren and friends safe. I often say that your Coronavirus rules are similar to how people observe their religion. You must do what you feel comfortable with. Some people don't bring in takeout food, but they will go to the grocery store. Some people chat on the first tee and they are not socially distant or wearing a mask because they are "outside". Some people have friends over for dinner and sit at the same table and share communal snacks. Some people have their hair done in the garage but let their grandchildren sleep over. I do not judge what you want to do. But I insist that we all respect each other's individual preferences. You do You, but please respect Me. Respect is a choice. I pray we all make wise choices, and we keep well and safe.
Ooh child
Things are gonna get easier
Ooh child
Things'll get brighter
Some day. yeah
We'll put it together and we'll get it undone
Some day
When your head is much lighter
Some day, yeah
We'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun
Some day
When the world is much brighter
PEACE OUT-ONE B
