Our Finest Hour

Schools, restaurants, and entertainment spaces have been closed for two weeks. Non-essential businesses closed a week ago. Basic necessities are in high demand. Jobs have been lost. Parents have become educators. Anxiety has filled us all. Medical professionals, trucker drivers and delivery persons, janitors, grocery cashiers and stockers, and so many other positions, once taken for granted, are now recognized as heroes at the frontlines of this battle. We've seen brave acts of humanity and sacrifice across the world. And hoarders, naive spring breakers, and rise in prejudice have disappointed us.

Thirteen days ago, Tom Bassert wrote in an ABCNews op-ed, "If we work together, this terrible moment could be our finest hour." Yesterday, Tom Arceneaux wrote in the Shreveport Times, "This can be one of our finest hours. We must pull together to stave off the worst health and economic effects of the pandemic. Let us make it so." The Today show recently broadcasted a video "Saluting the heroes savings lives and warming hearts" which highlighted positive acts during the pandemic. But what does our 'finest hour' look like for everyday people?

I've been thinking about that question a lot these two weeks. Here are 10 suggestions on what we, everyday people, can do to truly make this 'our finest hour':

1. Spend Money

2. Donate to Local Charities, Volunteer if you can

3. Check on People - Often

4. Break Barriers and Connect in New Ways

5. Make Memories

6. Be Positive and Share Positive Messages

7. "Thank You for Your Service"

8. Don't Hoard

9. Listen to Local Leaders and Hold Them Accountable

10. Safely Distance and Isolate

1. Buy From Local Businesses

At a moment where unemployment is skyrocketing and businesses are on the verge of the collapse, for those who can, spending money is valuable way to contribute. However, don't just order from Amazon or big box chains, identify local businesses in your area who may be struggling and order directly.

2. Donate to Local Charities, Volunteer if you can

During this time of crisis the needs are great, consider donating to your local food banks and local non-profits, particularly ones focused on domestic violence, mental health, vulnerable youth and foster care support, and homelessness. Additionally, many organizations need volunteers. Organizations like your local food bank, Meals and Wheels, and the Salvation Army are often seeking volunteers to help package or deliver critical items.

3. Check on People - Often

Isolation is affecting us all, but can be harder for vulnerable populations or those susceptible to depression. Reach out to friends and family often to just see how they are doing. Check on neighbors, especially the elderly and new parents, and take time to have a conversation and see how they are doing. Offer to help get groceries or help out around the house.

4. Break Barriers and Connect in New Ways

Many of us know our neighbors only superficially - suddenly though they are our primary source of human face-to-face interaction. Use this time to break down those usual barriers and connect in new ways. Hold outdoor exercise classes or dance sessions, play music together, get a big screen and have a neighborhood (socially-distanced) movie night, play games at a distance, do a skit night, have church services. What a great time to build community ties.

5. Make Memories

Children are anxious, as are we during this crisis. Help reduce that anxiety by making this a memorable time, a joyous time. Do a campout in the backyard (or the living room). Play board games. Play in the rain. Have a dance at home (Prom 2020!). Cook meals from around the world. Learn something new together. Snuggle with little ones. Do a story night by candle light. Learn about activism and support a cause. Make silly videos. The opportunities are endless to make this time a memorable one.

6. Share Positive Messages

Social media is such a powerful messenger, let it be one that uplifts during this difficult time. Post inspiring stories of service and love. Share opportunities to serve. Post about things you are grateful for. Share positive messages in others ways as well. For example, use chalk and write on the sidewalk, send cards to loved ones or thank you notes to local charities or service providers.

7. Show Gratitude for Those Who Must Work

There are so many who continue to work to keep this country, our healthcare system, and economy running. Actively recognize and thank frontline workers, not just with words, but with donations, gifts, large tips, and most importantly, respect. Wear your masks, socially distance, and do your part to protect them. Consider also sending personal messages to your friends you know who are still working and ask what you can do to help. Donate to local hospitals, send thank you cards, and respond to requests for help.

8. Don't Hoard

We are all hearing stories of the elderly and workers who desperately needs supplies but walk into stores to find empty shelves. Ensuring everyone is taking care of requires us all to just use and take what we need. Resist the urge to take multiple packages of paper towels, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer just because it's there. Let's be good citizens and kind neighbors.

9. Listen to Local Leaders and Hold Them Accountable

Our local leaders are working tirelessly to find solutions to keep us safe. Tune in for the press briefings and heed their guidance on social distancing, wearing masks, and staying home. Equally, let's hold our local leaders accountable for protecting us.

10. Social Distance and Isolate

We can slow the virus and give our health system time to catch up. We can protect our vulnerable populations. Social distancing and short-term isolation are some of the best ways that we can serve our communities right now.

I hope these suggestions were helpful. Be safe. Be positive. Be a good citizen.