Why now is the time to work together.

With everything going on in the world at the moment, I feel now is a better time than any to take a step back and remember what it is important in life.

The Coronavirus pandemic is here and it’s got me thinking about the state of society and how selfish we have become. You can’t go on social media without seeing images of people panic buying toilet rolls, soap and things like that. It’s madness, especially when there’s no need to.

This is a time when the most vulnerable need to be protected and society has to play its role in that. This is a time when you have to think of other people more than yourself. Yes, you may be young, fit and healthy meaning you’ll more than likely survive the virus so it’s fine if you catch it but what about your Dad who’s getting older and has underlying health problems? What about your Grandma or Grandad who is in their 80s? Yes, you’ll be fine but if they catch it from you, there’s good chance that they won’t be.

That’s not me trying to scare you, all you have to do is look at the statistics.

We’re only at the beginning of this, it’s going to get a whole lot worse before it gets better. We need to look after the most vulnerable members of our society.

Sport has already shutdown but when the time comes that the government closes schools, gyms, restaurants and other social places, instead of moaning that it ruins your plans, think of the bigger picture and the potential lives it will save.

It is not all about you.

It’s not hard to see that society is all about “me, me, me” but that has to change and quick. The only we make it through this, is together.

It starts with the most basic things like washing your hands properly and looking after your hygiene. Do that and we’re already on the way to beating this virus.

There’s going to come a point over the next few weeks where the government are going to ask people over the age of 70 and those with underlying health conditions to self isolate at home for (potentially) 4 months. If you know someone who lives close by who falls in that category, check in on them and ask if you can do anything for them. 4 months takes us to the middle of July so they’re going to need our help.

I’m not sure I’ll be proven right but I’m hoping that one positive to come from this pandemic is the return of community spirit. The return of when neighbours helped each other out, rather than muttering a few words to each other when they occasionally see each other.

I didn’t want to write too much on this because it seems everyone is but I will leave you with this.

Life’s about to change for a little bit and your normal routine is probably going to be interrupted, this isn’t the end of the world. Adjust, adapt and things will get back to normal soon.

Don’t believe everything you read on social media, do your research and make sure it’s from a reputable source.

Think of those around you who are vulnerable. Put them first in your thoughts when you do anything and we’ll be in a better position.

Help people where you can, they’re going to need your help.

Look after yourself and those closest to you, folks.

Stay safe.

See you next week.