As the coronavirus pandemic drags on in the US and around the world, many are asking themselves, “how long?” How long again until we can go to the supermarket and not feel like we’re being stalked by some unseen creature about to pounce on us? How long before we can stop wiping down everything that enters our home? How long before the toilet paper we’re accustomed to reappears on the shelves? How long?
From what the experts tell us, getting rid of COVID-19 will not be a sprint, but more like a marathon. Yet, as I write this, some states are preparing to “open up” and have people return to work. Georgia’s governor gave the go-ahead to certain close-contact businesses, like hair and nail salons, to re-open on Friday, and on Monday, restaurants and movie theaters will follow suit.
Type 2 diabetics and people with underlying conditions are at great risk for contracting COVD-19. You are doing great so far. You are washing your hands, disinfecting everything, wearing your mask, and keeping your distance when you go out. Can you be patient a little longer? If you are a type 2 diabetic, I am appealing to you to stay at home as long as possible. I know some people have to work and unemployment checks are not coming in as fast as they should, but if you don’t fall into either of these two categories, please stay at home.
If you are among the fortunate few who don’t have to go out to work, try to conduct most of your business from home. Do you have a computer or smartphone? Enroll in online banking. Shop online and have your groceries delivered to your door. Stores are honoring the local distancing order so you don’t even have to see their delivery people. With all that extra time you have on your hands, you can wash your hair, give yourself a mani and pedi and soak in the tub. Do whatever you have to in order to make this time as stress-free as possible.
Many businesses –banks, utilities, auto insurance companies — and others are suspending late payment fees and cancellations on account of the coronavirus. But you must call them and make that arrangement. All is not lost. We may be under a great deal of stress right now; we don’t know how or when all of this is going to end, but there is Someone who knows.
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. – Psalm 30: 5
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose – Romans 8: 28
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer – Romans 12: 12
Take heart, dear friends. This too will pass. Drop me a line and let me know how you are taking care of yourself during this trying time. And if you haven’t done so yet, please sign up for my Facebook group.
