So, Corona Virus has been on the minds of Americans lately and there are a few things that are worthy of consideration. As the country prepares to reopen the populace is experiencing a mixture of emotions, be it relief, excitement, fear, or frustration. Reopening will be beneficial for the economy, however the vulnerable groups are likely to suffer. Therefore, it is worthwhile to consider the implications of reopening the country and the subsequent impact that will result.
Being stuck at home can understandably make many people stir-crazy. The majority of people are accustomed to the daily bustle of their lives; work, school, shopping, grooming, the list goes on. Quarantining imposes an abnormal routine that prohibits regular function, so many are left unsure what to do with themselves. Although some people are engaging in various hobbies, the many unfilled hours and lack of social interaction can lead to a lot of pent up energy. Furthermore, people are losing money, specifically freelancers, artists, musicians, hair stylists, barbers, nail techs, small business owners, and creative types are likely experiencing a drop in the capacity to engage in money making activities. As a result, reopening the economy would provide a sense of relief that they can resume pursuing their endeavors.
Then there are the extroverts. Extroverted people gain energy from engaging in social interactions. These are the people that frequent social outings be it bars, clubs, concerts, events, dining out, etc. This interactive group likely had a part in the rise of virtual parties and concerts as an effort to fulfill the need for social interaction. Ironically, this may have provided a bit of an outlet for the creative types listed above, providing an outlet for artists and musicians to display their talents, and business owners to sell their wares. However, the option to return to previous activities can be both thrilling and exciting because it would provide a level of interacting that virtual simulation just does not fulfill. While virtual parties are not a replacement for human interaction, it dies prove that there are ways to interact when traditional means are not available.
On the other hand, vulnerable populations might feel fear. During the imposed quarantine the vulnerable population was impacted, and reopening the country may result in an increase in infected numbers. As the number of infected increases, the capacity of the healthcare system will be stressed, and medical infrastructures that supersede capacity are likely to leave under served and under insured communities with few options. Homeless and poor citizens with preexisting ailments may be left with few options for treatment or access to adequate medical which can result in fatalities. As more people are exposed to the virus it could be harder for these groups to avoid exposure. Subsequently, the reopening of the country could represent fear and apprehension for these groups.
Lets not forget the frustration of the essential workers, specifically the medical professionals. Imagine standing on the front lines, risking your health and the health of your family to fight an epidemic, only to hear that more people will be allowed to interact which may likely increase the very exposure that you are trying to fight. Feelings of futility and fruitlessness could result as you see cases increases. This is further complicated if you work in a situation with inadequate safety gear or social distancing protocol. These inadequacies that are dealt with daily may be compounded as more people are imposed into an already inadequate system, and more people come into circulation, which will likely increase risk. These issues can result in feelings in hopelessness and futility, as if the sacrifices made are nominal in the face of capitalism.
This pandemic has inspired a plethora of emotions, likely many more than are discussed in this post. Although we may feel different ways depending on our individual perspectives, I think it is important to understand the different perspectives so that we can act with empathy. Furthermore, I think that Covid-19 can be a learning experience. Some entrepreneurs are affected, yet we are exploring new avenues to circumvent the arising issues. There are reports of how the earth is healing, from reduction in smog to facilitating work in such a way that allows for more time with family. While it may not be sustainable to permanently to work from home, I can not help but consider a hybrid that is beneficial to all groups. Please, chime in, tell me your thoughts.
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