By Jill Roberts / March 21, 2020

Aside from making grocery runs, my family and I have been fairly hunkered down for the past week. Although we all believe we’ll eventually be exposed to this COVID-19 virus and survive it, we respect the concept of social distancing to “level the curve,” and hopefully eliminate a burden on the healthcare system. We also believe, the chaos driven by the fear of uncertainty will eventually subside as reality proves less eventful than the scary imagery that’s been created by our monkey minds.

I don’t anticipate being completely cut off from the ability to purchase food for an extensive period. I’ve stocked about a week’s worth of food. After that, I’d have to get creative with meal ideas. I didn’t purchase bottled water, because I don’t see the need; We’re on a well, and unless there’s something I’m missing, the virus isn’t going to take down our electricity. Worse case, we have a few water purification systems stored with our hiking gear, along with a few days’ worth of MREs. We’re resourceful; we’ll make it work.

Still, in all the frenzy it’s hard not wonder, “Did I miss the memo that everyone else seems to have gotten who’s stocking up like it’s Armageddon?

I often turn to the observances I’ve made in nature to offer guidance to life’s questions. So, I considered, “How do the trees in a forest prepare for a storm?” By my observations, they establish a strong root system; And, stand together to reduce the impact of a strong wind. Likewise, our ability to conquer disruptions in our lives comes from our fortitude to stand courageous and brave in the winds of fear. Our resilience only further increases when we stand in unity as a community.

No matter how much preparing you do, you can’t predict what the future circumstances will bring. You can be piled to the roof with food and supplies, but if your house burns to the ground, it’ll be the kindness and generosity of your neighbors that offer food and shelter. You can be stocked with enough bottled water and toilet paper for the next two years, but if you become seriously ill, or receive a life-threatening injury, it’ll be the expertise of a doctor or nurse who will provide the necessary care. We’re not intended to do life alone.

We’re in this together; Let’s remain sensible, and continue to believe in the kindness of others.