So I sat here the last few days reading about the growing problem with this Coronavirus, listening to both sides of the story from people saying, “Oh, it’s no big deal” all the way up to people freaking out like it’s the end of the world and everyone is going to die. I have read things online, watched videos, reviewed statistics and even garnered my own what-if scenarios. One thing remains a constant though. It doesn’t matter who you are, the “class” you’re defined as or even the color of your skin. If you’re going to get it, you’re going to get it; it’s just a matter of time. What you do with that time defines you and those you come in contact with. Everyone is out there saying cover your cough, wash your hands, spray your commonly touched items like doorknobs and handles. I can agree with this especially if you or people you interact with daily are immunocompromised, at a higher risk for developing complications due to infection or you have small children whose immune systems could be easily compromised by something to this extent.
I have read of schools closing, workplaces shuttering doors, travel restrictions, online school vs traditional, and many other facets of self-contained quarantine. I would also agree that the general media has a responsibility for correct reporting and accurate information, which when blown out of proportion, leads to shortages of goods, which we are experiencing nationwide today. I’m still wondering how they have toilet paper available for sale in China?
Back to the premise.
Years ago when the Ebola virus and H1N1 came out, people began to wake up and realize there were shortages at that time as well, however, too little too late for some. What’s troubling is the extent some of these pictures on social media have shown people going to in order to horde supplies such as bleach, water, toilet paper, disinfectant, and other sanitary supplies. Personally, I learned long ago that these items you buy in bulk; you start with 2 and when one is gone, you replace the other. Always have 2 on hand at all times and you will never run out. You can live on the 4-6 square rule with toilet paper and it lasts a lot longer than slinging the roll.
Anyways, in closing, there are a lot of people out there who need a sufficiently larger quantity of items than you may require. Buy responsibly and considerably. If you have to buy 4 packs of 40 rolls of toilet paper at one trip to the membership warehouse, you are overbuying; you need 2 at most. 3 cups of bleach go a long way in a 5-gallon bucket of water. Ask any kid who has been a dishwasher at a mom and pop restaurant. If you can’t get your butt clean with 2-3 swipes of 4-6 sheets of toilet paper, maybe consider investing in baby wipes. They are smaller, more foldable and do a better job of cleaning than dry toilet paper.
And lastly, quit shopping for masks at Home Depot and Lowes and such places. Respiratory masks are designed for specific uses and scenarios. That $10.00 box of 500 dust masks isn’t going to do shit for you except smell funny when you breathe through your nose. Cough into your elbow, wash your hands after touching things and before eating, bathe regularly, and wear clean clothes. And stay away from the clinics and emergency rooms unless you 110% HAVE to be there. I don’t need you going there in a panic when you aren’t sick and then you end up getting sick and get me sick later on.
Use common sense, education, and discipline. Quit spreading fear and anxiety and start spreading education, assistance, and compassion.
Posted by: Matt Addis
Momentary Lapse Of Sanity 