Dear Children,
It still amazes me at how many experts there seem to be regarding, well, everything, but specifically the pandemic. Suddenly, everyone knows all there is to know about public health, guidelines, and what's best for the person sitting next to them. It's funny how people are preaching freedom, but want others to think like them. I know you likely won't forget this pandemic any time in your life, but there are certain things that should never be forgotten. The next time you find yourselves in another pandemic or world crisis, please remember and preach these tips:
1.) Hold true to your own beliefs
2.) Always follow science and professionals. Unless you're an expert at whatever pandemic or crisis has hit, listen to those who know more than you. I don't care if that professional is telling you to wear a sock on your head, you listen to them. You'd rather be a fool than foolish in the end.
3.) Help if you can and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
4.) Don't be part of the problem, be part of the solution. Often, doing the right thing is the hardest thing.
5.) No matter how hard it is, show grace, empathy, and compassion to those around you. It's easy to let anger take over, especially when you absolutely cannot understand someone's point of view, but please don't succomb to it.
6.) Do not, I repeat, do not, hoard things. You will not ever need 500,000 rolls of toilet paper. You'll want to stock up on alcohol, puzzles, and streaming services. Trust me.
7.) Never lose sight of the end goal, if you even know what that is. I can tell you our two weeks of "flatten the curve" has turned into 18+ months of surges. This goes back to #4 now.
8.) If you need masks, Mom and Dad will forever have a healthy stock pile of them.
9.) Don't be an asshole. Just don't. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but not everyone needs to listen to it or make it their own belief. In the matter of public health, your own opinion is trumped by what is best for the good of everyone.