What I can do during the pandemic

Nobody knows how long our fight against Covid will continue. There is a news from UK today that a deadly mutation of Covid is now spreading in the UK forcing the government to impose a stricter shut down. European countries are imposing travel ban for people traveling from the UK.

In the US California is emerging as the new hot zone of Covid. The worst is yet to come, even though vaccine is creating hope. According to Dr Fauci “Until 65% of population is vaccinated, herd immunity will not kick in. “

What does all this mean to everyday people? This is what it means to me:

1. Let science take the lead in informing us what we need to do to contain the spread of the virus.
2. I must take every precaution to protect others. That means being mindful that my actions have consequences for others and I must not come in contact with the virus and become a carrier.
3. I must isolate myself as much as possible, maintain distance from others, wear a mask, and wash hands.
4. I must practice economics of conservation as opposed to consumption. That means I must refrain from unnecessary consumption for self gratification and learn to live with little.
5. At the same time I must spend my money to support local businesses and self employed service providers.
6. Give generous tips to those who bring food to me.
7. If I see a hungry person give them food.
8. If I see a person shivering in cold, give them food, coffee or if possible warm clothes and sheets to cover themselves with.
9. If someone is feeling stressed, or lonely, have a conversation with them, and listen to them.
10. Do everything I can to ensure income and healthcare for those who are employed in my business, even if that means using my savings or borrowing money to keep them and their families safe and healthy.
11. As a professional involved in inspiring innovation and change, I must ask hard questions to my clients so that they invest their resources in creating a new future that is more sustainable, humane, ethical and joyful.
12. As a story teller and a poet, I must use my creativity to nurture a sense of curiosity, compassion, and creativity in people.

I see the pandemic as a one time opportunity for all of us to become more responsible, slow down and learn to care for each other.