Day 7 - 96 -- Supportive Message

Today in an historical message, Queen Elizabeth II addressed the UK and Commonwealth about the COVID-19 pandemic. While she regularly provides a pubic address on Christmas Day, there have been only four other occasions when she has provided a public address -- the Gulf war, after the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, after the death of the Queen Mother, and for her diamond jubilee. So, just five times in over 68 years. In her speech, HRM noted that isolation and separation from loved ones can be painful, but that we know deep down it is the right thing to do. She stated this provided an opportunity to slow down and reflect on this disruption to daily our daily lives. This may bring a renewed focus on what we find most important. I particularly liked her wish that in the future, we would be able to take pride in how we responded to this challenge, .hoping we react with "quiet, good humored resolve." Now we can join with people around the world in the belief that we will be with family and friends again -- soon.

A meme message on social media this past week purported to be from health care workers, noted that they were not our first line of defense, but our last line of defense. The front line workers include truckers, restaurant, grocery and pharmacy personnel and so many others working to ensure  supply lines, communication platforms and waste management remain operational. It could be said that each of us is a front line worker. Our choices right now to self isolate can save lives. This reminded me of song lyrics written for a more localized crisis 35 years ago. Stay safe. Enjoy!

We are the World -- USA for Africa