Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
This is what all of us as Americans must have: faith in the substance of things hoped for.
Faith is more important than ever in times like these. Our nation has been challenged by an invisible disaster that has caught us off guard, forced us indoors, and closed us off from the outside world. We must have faith in our efforts as we persevere.
It’s understandable to be frustrated with social distancing, especially after such a long period of time. However, these measures and acts are still as important as they were when we started.
What currently gives me comfort is how Americans from all backgrounds have come together to support and help one another. I have seen the best that we, as Americans, have to offer. It has always been there but is often hidden from view by politics and demographics that create invisible lines. Through this crisis, we have come together and consciously moved past our differences for the better of all Americans. That is something this virus will never take from us.
Experts warn of a second wave in the fall.
To avoid a similar situation, current guidelines by epidemiologists and other experts should be followed for as long as necessary. Steps outlined by the CDC, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with other people whenever possible, should be taken extremely seriously.
It is our continued commitment to each other and our diligence that will prevail and see us through. This virus is the great equalizer, and no amount of money or power makes anyone immune to the risks involved. More importantly, there is no one above its understanding.
It is incredibly challenging to make decisions that impact so many people, especially during an unprecedented time like this. Our leaders need the greatest amount of support as they are the ones who have to represent us with courage. We look to them to know and decide when to halt our current way of life and when to let us return to what we know as our daily lives. We need to support them with the understanding that they will make great decisions but also make mistakes. It is in our DNA to hold people accountable for their mistakes, but in instances like these, just having the courage to make any decision should garner our respect and support.
One of the most famous quotes of our lifetime says, “If at first you don't succeed, try, try again,” and this is what stopping the spread of this virus is going to require. It is going to require courage and our ability to reevaluate and be flexible to changes in direction as this virus fights our every turn. It will also require us to move forward focusing on solutions for the future and not problems of the past.
We have come together as citizens of this country. Let us not forget our leaders are also citizens, parents, and children—and just like us—they are fearful of the unknown. Remember this: the notion of perfection is only an idea and not reality. Our leaders, all of them no matter their politics, were born of a love of country.
There is no question that the economy is being hit hard by these measures.
We all want things to return to normal as quickly as possible and get people moving again. But making sacrifices now in the short term can help us come back stronger than ever in the long term.
It is important to listen to our leaders and the CDC and follow the guidelines so that we can come back as strong as possible. If we hunker down and stick it out no matter how hard it is now, we can come back stronger than ever.
We hope to resume our lives as we once remember them, and we hope to live our lives in a way that brings us all comfort. Instead of judging those in charge of our safety and well-being, let’s put our faith in those who may better understand the evidence of the things we do not see.
