So I was recently told that since the start of this virus, people have stopped buying Corona beer. And I’m like, “Since people don’t drink Corona beer anymore because of the Coronavirus, God, what do you have in store for other brands of beer? God, I’m sure you’re thinking what I’m thinking.” 🤣 But then, I remembered that God said in Isaiah 55:8, that His thoughts are nothing like my thoughts. Eh, but I’m sure God has a sense of humor. 🤷🏽♂️ But in all seriousness, this outbreak is bringing anxiety and panic to an all-time widespread high. I won’t downplay the severity of the virus and the effects it can have on risk groups. What I do like to bring awareness to, is the way we’re going about it at the moment.
Let’s get one thing clear: anxiety, panic, and stress all weaken the immune system intensely. It will make you more susceptible to illness, including viruses. So instead of losing control over yourself by joining this societal anxiety, I encourage you to stay calm. Watch the news if you so desire, but also check news sources that bring more facts to the table than just the infected number, the death toll, and toilet paper/sanitizer hoarding. Inform yourself of all the facts about this virus. As the saying goes, knowledge is power.
I went to the barbershop this past weekend to get a trim, and because the virus is a trending topic, my barber decided to weigh in on the matter. He said, “black folks do not have to worry about the virus because we are immune from it.” He came up with that idea because of what he had read/seen on the news. A few days after he made that statement, there was a confirmed case in Washington, D.C. involving a black individual. But I’m very sure he wouldn’t see that on the news because people these days only see and hear what they want to hear.
I’ve also come to realize that since the pandemic, Chinese people have been at the end of so many racist attacks all because the virus originated in China. How absurd! This virus is not a Chinese, Italian, or any single nation’s problem. It is a global problem. Stigmatizing attitudes like these only make us the greatest enemy of the virus. We are all supposed to come together to find solutions and help one another. This virus isn’t an excuse for anyone to be racist towards the Chinese.
Also, we shouldn’t be overdramatic about this virus. Sure, we all need to be careful with any sickness, but after all, the Coronavirus is no different than the regular flu. So, let’s take the standard measures of washing our hands, cough and sneeze away from people, and stay home if and when we feel sick. Most importantly, take matters, as far as you can, into your own hands. Focus on building inner resilience, not by joining in with the anxiety/panic, but by focusing on rational thinking, fact-checking, questioning your fearful thoughts, and replacing them with hopeful ones, e.t.c.
Do not let mass panic weaken your nervous and immune system. Stay aware, updated, grounded, and informed. Take good care of yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically. As a side note, amid this outbreak, take advantage of the airline deals right now, as flights are considerably cheaper. Be safe! ✌🏽
Blazer_ Topman
Turtleneck_ Express
Pants_ Express
Loafers_ Hudson London
