Dec 11, 202010 min read

Lean on Me: COVID-19 and A New "Normal"

"Lean on me, when you're not strong

And I'll be your friend

I'll help you carry on

For it won't be long

'Til I'm gonna need

Somebody to lean on..."

- Bill Withers

It was back in March when all of our lives began to change. For some, it was sooner and for others, it was later. I remember the day it started for me. As I left the anatomy building after studying in the dissection lab, I walked through the parking lot to find my car where I would then get ready to go home. An email was sent out not too long ago that day to all students. It stated that the school was being shut down for a few weeks because of a new pandemic the world was facing due to Coronavirus Disease 2019 aka "COVID-19". Frustration grew on my face and I began to feel annoyed about these new changes. That is when I ran into one of my professors in the parking lot. We greeted each other warmly and she asked me how I was doing. Without a blink of an eye, I shared with her how frustrated I felt about this situation, thinking that COVID-19 was simply another type of flu. What's the big deal? Is it really that serious? However, what she said to me next was something I would never forget. "Right now, this virus is affecting the elderly and those who have underlying diseases. We have to think of them right now and keep in mind that although it's not affecting us, we have to do what we have to do to protect them." That's when it hit me. Not only had I not known any accurate information about COVID-19, but my ignorance of the matter led me to oversimplify the situation at hand that day.

After our conversation, I felt thankful for her wisdom and insight. In the coming days and weeks, the stores were empty of food and basic toiletries. The schools, restaurants, churches, and streets were bare. Weddings and vacations were canceled, including some of my own. Some parents had to teach their children for the first time due to school closures. People lost jobs. Everything practically went virtual. The list goes on and on... It's been 9 months since we encountered our new "normal". And you know what's even worse? Countless numbers of people are dying every day while others continue to act as if nothing has changed. Hospitals and graveyards are growing but so are bars, restaurants, and homes/apartments with large crowds of people. Our frontline healthcare workers are burning out and resources are depleting by the minute. If there is a time for society to become selfless, this is the time. Society is saying "I do what I please" instead of "lean on me".

With this blog, I hope to share some insight with you all to not only share some essential facts about COVID-19 but to also charge you to reconsider how you navigate this new "normal". It is time to rise above our own desires to consider the lives of others around us, even if we do not know who they are. Here are a few thoughts/tips about understanding and dealing with COVID-19. Most of the information presented will be using resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a reliable and accurate resource.

1. Understand The Seriousness of What We Now Face

As of today, it has been reported to the CDC that there have been 15,474,800 cases and 291,522 since January 21, 2020 in the U.S.

Below are the top 5 leading causes of death in the U.S., according to the CDC.

Heart disease: 655,381
Cancer: 599,274
Accidents (unintentional injuries): 167,127
Chronic lower respiratory diseases: 159,486
Stroke (cerebrovascular diseases): 147,810

Do you know what is strange about this list? If you look at the number of deaths due to COVID-19, this puts it as now the 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S. just above accidents. This is how serious COVID-19 is. In a matter of months, we now have this fact to face and without the efforts of everyday people making decisions to social distance and follow guidelines, the numbers will continue to grow. Many people may not realize this, but we are on the brink of a real problem. One day, the history books will discuss these moments we are in right now. In a matter of months, a virus has made its way to the top 3 causes of death. If this doesn't make you cringe, I don't know what would. Yes, I do believe that God is a miracle worker and there is not a day that passes where I don't pray. Even still, I recognize that God also granted me common sense to make good and wise decisions as well. We need to take this matter seriously and if people around you are not, share with them these numbers and mention the fact that they are still growing by the day. We should all take this into account as we take part in including preventative measures in our everyday decisions.

2. Wear a Mask... It's that simple!

I get it: it's uncomfortable and awkward... but these simple actions can help save a life.

What exactly is COVID-19? The CDC describes COVID-19 as a respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, a new coronavirus discovered in 2019. A person may or may not always have symptoms if they are infected. For those who exhibit symptoms, the severity of the illness can range from mild to severe. The individuals at a higher risk for severe illness are the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions. However, anyone can get this disease. This is why it is important to take preventative measures every day and all the time.

COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets, which travel into the air when you cough, sneeze, talk, shout or sing. Did you know that particles from a sneeze can travel up to 8 feet?! These droplets can be breathed in by people nearby or land on their mouths. How do we combat this? It's simple... wear a mask. Masks are a simple barrier to help prevent these droplets from spreading to others and studies prove this to be effective. Buy several masks and keep spare masks with you or in your car at all times. In addition, you should also stand 6 feet away from others to avoid potential droplets as well. Still not convinced that it works? To be quite frank and honest, even if you don't understand, it still needs to be done. Wearing a mask protects you and it helps protect other people from you. I understand that sometimes you may forget. I've done that a few times, but with having an extra mask in multiple places (a purse, wallet, etc), I quickly put one on. The important thing to remember is that wearing a mask IS now a part of our new normal. Click here to learn about the CDC's recommendations about wearing a mask.

3. Practice Social Distancing... Not Social Isolation

Staying connected to others is important for your mental wellbeing.

A newly coined term, "social distancing", has encountered our lives and it is here to stay for a while. The CDC describes social distancing, also called “physical distancing,” as keeping a safe space between yourself and other people who are not from your household. To practice this preventative measure, people should stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms' length) from other people who are not from your household in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Why does this matter? For the same reasons we wear a mask, we should practice social distancing because of the droplets that travel through the air. It is pure common sense to not stand too close to others in order to protect yourself. Considering the fact that all not people exhibit symptoms, you should consider this when walking in stores, standing in lines, etc. I see too many people ignoring this and when people stand too close, it is okay to tell them to give you some space in a respectful manner. Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself or take a step back. It pains me to see people going on and living their lives as if nothing has changed. I too want so badly to go out with friends and do the things I love doing with my entire family. However, I understand that although I want to do those things, I have to be careful and if there are large crowds of people, it would endanger the people around me and put myself in danger as well. It's not worth it, but I also have faith that this won't last always. It's bitter but it's necessary.

Moreover, I want to mention that even while practicing social distancing, you should not completely isolate yourself from others. Yes, you can still meet with people in-person but if you have a gathering, try meeting up outside and keeping your groups to less than 10 people. Reach out to family, schedule a virtual game night, talk with loved ones, and go for walks/hikes outside. My family did a group FaceTime video over Thanksgiving and it was a blast! You can still have a great social life without being alone. I truly believe that COIVD won't last always, but until we are in the clear, continue to monitor your emotional health and stay connected to people you love and care about! This change may be difficult for many people who hate being alone at home or maybe do not enjoy being at home. It also may be difficult for those who are social butterflies. I know this time is hard, but try your best to talk with people as much as you can, even if you choose to stay at home. You may have to get creative, but the point is to continue reaching out and talking with people while we are going through this arduous time.

4. Maintain Your Wellness

“It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary.” - Mandy Hale

Maintaining your wellness is essential and extremely necessary during this time in our lives. Wellness involves environmental, physical, social, spiritual, etc. There are various dimensions of wellness and it is crucial for everyone to maintain their wellness because it is easy to lose yourself. If you have extra time, try reading more, exercising, playing video games, journaling, listening to sermons or music. Dive into some fun activities for your family or soak in the tub for a spa night/bubble bath. I myself have been exploring new things, hobbies, and passions. Don't just Netflix and sleep all day, but try to enjoy your time and learn something new about yourself and close loved ones.

For some people, there is increased worry and stress due to financial instability, job instability, health concerns, concerns about resource shortages, and so many other factors. These are very concerning indeed. It may be difficult but try your best to stay positive. Be encouraged and know that a positive change is coming. I implore everyone to do their best to involve themselves in daily activities to keep them productive. Be sure to take good care of yourself to the best of your ability in any way that you can.

Furthermore, your spiritual wellness is also critical to maintaining. Understand that although you have faced many trials, The Lord still sits on the throne. COVID-19 may have thrown you in the midst of a great storm but God will help you prevail. This is the time to trust in Him and to build on your spiritual relationship with Him. If you have been able to say afloat, stable, and healthy during this time, this is the time to be grateful, thankful, and humble. Thank the Lord for even the smallest blessings and pray for those around us. Not everyone is so fortunate, and we should maintain our humility at this time.

5. Recognize That It's Not Just About You

At this time in America and around the world, it is not about what we want as individuals, but what is best for everyone.

I want to take this time to plead to everyone to be selfless. Sadly, I have seen so many people trying to go on and live their normal lives as they ignore safety guidelines, refuse to wear masks, go out in large crowds, and say things like "I'm tired of COVID and I just don't care anymore". It pains me to see people being so selfish, especially when people are dying each and every day. It hurts me to see our healthcare workers burned out, scared, and overworked. What will it take for people to take this seriously? A lost family member or a hospital scare? It shouldn't have to happen to you for it to matter to you. This may sound harsh but too many people are becoming lax during a time when we should lean on each other and work together to fight this pandemic. Swallow your pride and understand that no human being is invincible. We are all at risk, with some being more at risk than others. Please reconsider your choices. Please take into consideration the needs of others just as much as you think of your own needs. We can get through this if we work at this together! We should be able to trust that people care enough about others by adhering to the safety guidelines. We should lean onto each other and understand that this is truly a moment of truth of whether humanity can achieve unity in working together towards a common goal.

I hope that this blog post not only gave you some basic information to help you understand this pandemic, but I hope that it illustrates how serious this matter is. It is vital that we "lean on" each other in a time of uncertainty. However, we must understand that God is bigger than any problem we may face. Many times, I push myself to demonstrate my faith because it is often during hard times when our faith is truly tested. Trust in the Lord. Remain steadfast and pray without ceasing! Hold onto your faith and please wear a mask, social distance, and be selfless. This is our new normal.

To anyone who has lost loved ones, my heart truly goes out to you and your loved ones. I am deeply sorry for your loss and pray that the Lord blesses you with peace and comfort. May God be with you.

Prayer for COVID-19

Dear Heavenly Father,

We face a new time in our lives where our world has encountered great sickness, mortality, and hardship. For those who have lost loved ones due to COVID-19, we ask that you grant them solace, comfort, peace, and hope. For those who are battling this disease, we ask that you protect them and heal them. For those who are serving those with this disease as healthcare workers, we ask that you restore them, protect them, and guide their hands as they care for the sick. Our world is changing before our eyes and as we endure these changes, we look to you for your guidance and aid. Protect our loved ones and neighbors from harm. Help us to make everyday decisions that will not only protect us but those around us. Be with us in our times of isolation and extends us hope and resources when there are none. No disease is bigger than the God we serve. We bind this disease in the name of Jesus and we extend our faith to acknowledge your strength in our times of weakness and despair. Lord, please send healing, restoration, peace, and wisdom to us as we deal with these situations around us. Help me to make good decisions and to put the needs of others before my own. In Jesus Christ, I pray, amen.