It’s 4:30 AM and I’m awake with worry about a number of things. I’m usually good at slowing down my brain and getting a decent amount of sleep at night, but I just can’t get things to slow down today. If you’ve been paying attention to the news this week, and honestly, who hasn’t, you may be losing some sleep as well.
I’m trying not to be overly concerned about the Coronavirus concerns. I’m rather lucky: I work from home, I’m not one for huge gatherings any way, and I’ve been washing my hands regularly for over five decades. But I’m worried about the older people in my life and their susceptibility to the virus. Because the Trump Administration has been downplaying concerns about the virus so as not to mess up its electability I fear there’s a number of folks walking the streets that may be carrying the virus and not even know it.
I’m reminded of the AIDS crisis back when I was a young gay. I was prudent back then and I continue to be prudent today.
I think the hardest part of dealing with the Coronavirus is this concern is on top of everything else that’s been thrown our way since the last presidential election. Impeachments, stock market fluctuations, concern around illegal activities, not being able to trust anything Trump says, the fighting between parties, and most importantly to me, the fighting between friends and family members with differing political ideologies.
I’m really tired.
I’m concerned that not getting enough sleep from worry is going to lead me to being more susceptible to getting sick, even if it’s not the Coronavirus.
At the end of the day I just want everyone to be healthy and happy and appreciated and valued and recognized for their contribution to society, no matter how big or small that contribution may be.
Keep calm. Be prudent, not panicked. Be kind.
And wash your hands.
