Holding onto humanity in these times of coronavirus

Forecasting experts everywhere are telling us how COVID-19 will change our daily lives forever. How we work, communicate and even what jobs will be lost and created over this unparalleled time.

More importantly, how will this change us? Our very nature, our world view, our daily interactions?

Sure, we have seen the hoarding, those who think the warnings do not apply to them. Maybe even a few self-serving people. Selfishness does not have boundaries.

Humans are at risk, but humanity doesn’t have to be. The very traits that exemplify greatness lie in the word humanity.

So what can we do to show our humanity in this world-changing time? Start simple, with “love our neighbor.” Loveourneighbors.org gives us plenty of opportunities to help others. But even looking on our street, we see opportunities.

Forgive. The world today is promised to no one. We don’t know if that problem with a family member, a former friend or colleague will ever be remedied, for eternity. How important is that grudge and hurt? Peace always is better than hate.

How are we at empathy right now? If there was ever a time to gut-check oneself on whether we can feel for others — care for them on deep levels — it is now. Real empathy is something to behold.

The golden rule found in every faith is more relevant today than ever. What’s that look like when we are all hunkered down under a stay-at-home order?

Simple things. Let’s thank that cashier, the person stocking the shelves, those delivering to our homes, and the folks putting out this newspaper. Thank the health professionals, law enforcement, fire departments, and government that are all in harm’s way for us. They sacrifice too much for us not to appreciate them.

The Modesto restaurants we love still need that love. Our community is unique because these inventive and talented entrepreneurs make us happy with their amazing creations. Keep buying, within your budget, but help keep these local businesses and their workers here. When this is over, we’ll want that restaurant to be here. So, let’s help now.

Lastly, let’s connect. Have happy hours, baby showers, and family reunions on Zoom. Let’s share our experiences, our concerns, fears, and small victories by seeing those we love and appreciate via technology. That personal connection is what many of us miss the most right now. Let’s be intentional and reach out to those we value.

Soon, these very souls will be face-to-face with us, wearing big smiles, offering hugs —when we finally can. They are our greatest hope.

Let’s all come out of this with bigger hearts. We’ll thank ourselves later for it. Our humanity is what matters most right now.