Week One is Done

We are coming up on a week since being told that our school district was not going to re-open from Spring Break until April 5 due to the Corona Virus. We have since been told to avoid crowds of 10 or more, restaurants are now *take out* only, the term "social distancing" has almost immediately become part of our common vernacular... and it has only been a week. 

During this week, I have seen people panic and buy more than is needed as they argue with each other over toilet paper and food. I have watched people cry to the sky and hand wring over what they think should have been done instead of actively working the problem. I have also watched others give some of what they have to others because (thanks mostly to panicky hoarders) they could not find what they needed at the store. I have watched teachers and others who work with children and young people try to find ways to be there for their students and youth. 

I have watched many in our government demonstrate that they are capable of getting things done for the people as I hear of others attempting to profit from a disaster that affects us all-especially those who are without (in just about every sense of the word). 

Personally, I think there has been much more positive than negative going on among us in this trying time. Families are together under one roof for more time than they may be able to remember. This provides an opportunity for re-connection with our loved ones (don't waste it). We have the opportunity to re-start some habits (I have been walking every day since this started and eating better too). Technology has enabled many of us to continue connecting and there could be few better uses for it, especially in times like this. I think we have come to realize just how stark inequities are in our country (and firmed up our resolve to make things better). There have been constant examples of individual and corporate citizens of means reaching out in whatever way they can to help those who have less.

In short, this week has shown us the best (and worst) of what we can be. This is almost always the case when we find ourselves in difficulty and challenge-we see and know ourselves at our best and worst. The struggle of our shared humanity comes to light in these times and as with all things in all times, we find ourselves with a choice-to be the best version of ourselves or not. Times such as this should remind us that we do have the choice to do better-to be better for others and ourselves. 

When this is over, may we continue to help each other. May we continue to show mercy to those who need it. May we continue to help those who cannot help themselves. May we hold accountable those who seek to benefit from those who suffer. May we hold ourselves accountable so that we do not find ourselves counted among those who care only for themselves.

As I mentioned, there is no school Monday but I do look forward to reaching out to my students and parents, whether by email, ZOOM, Google Classroom, or some other means, to catch up with them, see that they are ok, and talk about possible projects that would occupy them as we work together  to make music in a time where we are unable to physically be together.

Local, State, and Federal Leaders, First Responders, Food and Service Workers, Educators, Medical Staff of all stripes, we are are thankful for you. Fellow educators, let's roll up our sleeves, work together and be the best we can be for our students, each other, and our families.

Blessings...