Paying it Forward in a Pandemic
We are in uncharted waters as the COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting virtually every aspect of our lives. People of all ages will remember this period, much as people think back upon 9–11, the Kennedy assassinations, and previous generations remember Pearl Harbor. There is an uneasy feeling pervading the people of the United States and the world.
The initial Fifteen Days to Slow the Spread has now been extended an additional thirty days until the end of April. The impact on our economy and markets has been devastating. The Federal Government passed a $2Trillion stimulus bill to support small businesses and workers.
Like so many Americans, our household is adhering to the shelter in place guidelines, only venturing out for absolute necessities. We’re fortunate, I’m semi-retired and supplement my pension with freelance writing. My Wife is still employed but works from home and is observing her company’s travel restrictions. Every day is starting to feel like the day before, this is becoming a bit like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day.
I start each day by tracking and charting the Johns Hopkins COVID-19 MAP. The numbers continue to climb, we’ve surpassed a million confirmed cases worldwide. And, now the U.S. leads the world, with more cases than Spain and Italy combined. I read the numbers, suppress the anxiety, and wonder what I can do …
The number of unemployed due to the outbreak is unprecedented. Over ten million people have filed jobless claims in just the past two weeks. So, this morning I had a thought. Although I cannot volunteer and go out to the food banks due to my age and other issues, I could do just a little something. This morning I texted my barber, asked how he was doing, implored him to stay safe, and let him know that although I am in desperate need of a haircut, I am not venturing out. To support him, I offered to send him my regular monthly cost of a haircut via PayPal.
Paying it Forward
A couple of days ago, I overheard a young lady on her iPhone saying to a friend, “by the time we can venture out we’ll all be brunettes with horrible looking fingernails.” Why can’t all of us that are still gainfully employed help those we normally interact with on a regular/monthly basis? My barber, your stylist, your trainer, manicurist, dog walker, etc. Consider it Paying it Forward in a Pandemic.
The American people are responding to COVID-19 as we always do in times of crisis, we pull together, buckle down, and persevere. We will exit this uncertain time stronger and more resolved than ever.
The NFL, NBA, NCAA, and Major League Baseball will return, although it’s uncertain when. And, eventually, you’ll be able to work out in your gym, dine at your favorite restaurant, and imbibe at your local pub. Things will return to Pre B.C. (before coronavirus) levels. In the meantime, please consider my idea to help your fellow Americans.
