Do We Care?

Do we care? That’s a big question in our world right now. My first reaction is nope! We don’t care. We don’t care about each other. We don’t care about those sick with COVID. We don’t care enough to mask and social distance. We say hurtful things on line as if that doesn’t count...things we would never say to each other’s faces. I struggle not to respond to political posts, but I’m not always successful. We don’t fact check before we post. We trust those for whom a lie is acceptable. We don’t care about the unemployed. We just don’t care. This makes me sad. Please tell me I’m wrong. 

A group of us mostly retired folks sat in our distancing circle by the creek and talked about just this topic. We also talked about sports, home values and a few other topics! It was a wonderful break. We agreed we are conflicted. How do we feel about the lack of civility we see in our world? How do we feel toward those who said COVID was a hoax, refused to model safe behaviors, and now have the disease and may have been responsible for multiple infections by not quarantining in a timely manner.  Even the head of NOtre Dame, Father Jenkins,  did not follow his own advice and mask and got COVID. How do we feel about our government now? What is happening? How do we feel about still not providing adequate healthcare for all? Will our democracy survive?  How do we feel about rising home prices and falling 401Ks?  Are we supporting small business and safely supporting restaurants? We were old and younger, an elected school board member and former campaign chair for Bloomberg, a career healthcare worker (that would be me), a VA security guard and former Sheriff, and Woody who surprised me with how much he has been paying attention! 

So yes, I’m conflicted. We each must explore our conscience. We must decide if we care. We must make an effort to care. We must realize that calling ourselves Christian must be reflected in our actions. And Lord knows, I try as I’m sure you do too!  We must look outside ourselves to the needs of others and do what we can to help. Whether that is donating to food banks, supporting small businesses, over tipping if you go out or deliver in, playing with your grands or helping a neighbor!  We need to learn to care more! I’ll try! 

So have a great week! Care a lot! Wear your mask! Social distance! Wash your hands! Love you all!