Distancing

The present coronavirus pandemic has evoked a global fear and concern unprecedented in modern times. Economies are plunging world-wide; protective gear and virus test kit shortages mount; biotech firms scramble to discover an effective vaccine; and ‘social distancing’ has become the new moniker prompted to mitigate its spread. Detection focuses on three symptomatic questions –

Do I have a persistent cough, respiratory difficulties, a fever of 100.4 degrees or more?

Thankfully, in the midst of the frenzy, encouraging virtues of human concern have emerged as individuals selflessly ‘un-distance’ themselves to serve others COVID-19 has directly affected and/or quarantined . . . an inspiring testimony of how the worse oftimes brings out the best in humankind.

Sadly, there exists another insidious viral pandemic which has plagued mankind since time began. Its unspoken moniker is ‘prejudicial distancing’. Detection focuses on one brutal, personally introspective question –

Have I ever . . .  in thought, word or deed . . . ‘distanced’ myself from another because of their race, ethnicity, religion, creed, past, social status, etc? The totally transparent, blatant truth is, at some time in our lives, to some extent, we all have. Regretfully, I have.

COVID-19 is a physical condition that can result in death. ‘Prejudicial distancing’ is a psychological condition which digs two graves, and most often the perpetrator isn’t aware one is theirs.

Thankfully, there exists a simple, 100% effective, but extremely difficult to self-administer ‘vaccine’. Most likely you’ve heard of it, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” – The Golden Rule.

Its Author was the sole individual who never once succumbed to ‘prejudicial distancing’; chose not to ‘distance’ Himself from infected mankind; willing went to the grave for us; and forever forgave and mercifully ‘nailed it’ on a cross for each of us some 2,000 years ago.

During these disconcerting coronavirus times my prayer is each of us will appropriately practice ‘social distancing’; appropriately ‘un-distance’ ourselves to those in need; and strive our best to personally resist spreading the virulence of ‘prejudicial distancing’.

Be Safe, and Be Blessed!