Living Through Historic Times

The entire world seems upside down right now and we are definitely living in some interesting times.  The COVID-19 virus is beginning to spread in the U.S. and it seems all consuming in the news. All of the genealogy groups are reminding people to write about what is happening in their lives to document for future generations.  

What this reminds me of is the turmoil of what happened after the 9/11 attacks, except for the closures.  In 2001, they told you to keep doing your normal routine - shop, eat, etc. - don' t let the terrorists win.  In 2020, the enemy is an unseen virus and the economy is shutting down as businesses are beginning to be ordered shut down.

Back in 2001, I didn't write anything down for future generations - and to date, I've been lax about telling what has been going on here.

The grandkids' school is out and may be done for the year.  Both Eileen & I have been working - and worrying about who has brought the exposure into our workplace.  Her work has implemented some flex schedules for her.  My workplace has not allowed us to work remote, even though we have the ability to do so.  Frustration and confusion with that situation continues.

Social media is full of stories of folks whose work has either been closed, having them work remote or they are being self-quarantined.  Saw a Facebook post yesterday of a distant cousin which stated they were sick and described their conditions.  That made me realize we are going to watch this unfold in real time on Facebook, Twitter, etc. as it spreads.

Fortunately, Indiana hasn't had it as bad yet - but it will come.  Watching the COVID-19 Task Force urge people to stay home and then seeing reports of young people (even in my family) take trips and act like it is not going to be a big deal makes me want to shake my head.

Early in our marriage, Eileen & I were visiting a cemetery where some of her family is buried and we noticed all of the people who died around the 1918-19 time period.  She wondered what was going on during that time, and we talked about the Spanish Flu epidemic.  I fear we are getting ready to see a repeat of that situation here soon.

The panic buying of items such as toilet paper has put a strain on supply for the grocery stores.  We have tried to find alternative arrangements as the normal pickup at WalMart locally is unavailable.  We are not suffering any shortages at home.  I feel I peaked too early a few years ago with all of my canning.  Back then, I looked like a prepper - those who stocked up then are looking right now.

Saw a news article warning people not to pull money out of the bank and wondered why they are trying to warn us not to?  Obviously, they are afraid of a run on the banks.  Glad our financial situation has been good and our elimination of debt through the years will reap reward.

At work I'm dealing with trying to manage a team of people who have high anxiety over the situation.  Every news report brings another round of fear.  The governor called out the National Guard, closed restaurants to dine in customers, etc.  The havoc this is beginning to cause to the economy will be brutal.

The younger folks weren't adults during 9/11 and don't have any idea how quickly life as we know it in this country can change in an instant.