While there may be shortages of toilet paper and hand sanitizer at the grocery store, there should be no shortage of kindness as we navigate a new normal in the time of COVID-19. As public health officials are calling for responsible “social distancing,” perhaps the more appropriate term is “physical distancing,” while still aiming for social connection and compassion. Civility is more relevant now than ever, as Governor DeWine and Dr. Acton remind us that we are all #InThisTogether. Civility scholar P.M. Forni has said that “civility means a great deal more than just being nice to one another…Taking an active interest in the well-being of our community and concern for the health of our society is also involved.” I can’t think of a more apt time where we are able to practice civility and improve our health than this very moment.
Personally, I have been touched to see people in my neighborhood strongly heeding the national guidance to stay at least six feet apart from one another while walking the dog or running on the sidewalk. I have recently noticed far more people wearing cloth masks and other face coverings while shopping. I have also watched as friends and family from near and far have intentionally found ways to stay connected; through dates on Zoom, Facetime, and other social media forms. I have been moved to read stories about people volunteering their time at food banks or delivering goods to seniors at home who are unable to get out themselves. These kind actions—however small—are significant and make an immeasurable difference when it comes to “flattening the curve” and keeping the most vulnerable members of our community safe.
It bears repeating that the official CDC guidelines related to the COVID-19 pandemic include:
- Listen and follow the directions of your state and local authorities
- If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work
- If someone in your household has tested positive, keep the entire household at home
- Work or study from home whenever possible
- Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people
- Use pickup or delivery options when it comes to getting food or groceries
- Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits
- Always practice good hygiene: wash your hands, avoid touching your face, sneeze or cough into your elbow, and disinfect frequently used items and surfaces
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
As the CDC says, “even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others.” For people who may feel that they do not face great personal risk from this virus, I implore you to consider the wellbeing of those around you: your family members, neighbors, and even members of your community who you do not know. Although we are being asked to stay apart—and it may feel like the farthest thing from caring for one another—it is in fact the best thing to do for our collective health!
-Natalie Fiato, Wellness Coordinator, Civility and Sexual Health Promotion
Resources
- National Coronavirus (COVID-19) website https://www.coronavirus.gov/
- Ohio Department of Health Coronavirus (COVID-19) website https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/home