Day 78

May 28, 2020 The year of the pandemic. That is how 2020 will forever be known. The year is just over a fourth of the way and we still have no signs of a slowing virus in America and other parts of the world. However, in countries such as New Zealand, Hong Kong and Vietnam the virus is almost snuffed out.  With strict bans on travel into the country and a swift, decisive action plan these countries have more than flattened the curve; the virus is almost non-existent inside their borders.
The credit goes to the leadership for remaining calm and putting a sensible plan into action by unifying the people, but credit is also due to the people themselves who quickly adhered to the bans and restrictions and followed orders in order keep each other safe (that was the rallying cry from New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden.  I realize there are 4.8 million people in New Zealand, a much easier number to convince, but here in the states we have people going rogue on mask orders and worse yet standing up against bans and restrictions set in place to keep themselves and fellow Americans safe. In Asia, where virus outbreaks were larger, they were able to get on top of the spread by putting forth a plan that was apolitical and for the good of the people. No infighting or separation of beliefs.  The people believed the government were acting for welfare of all.  In Hong Kong they have averaged one case per day in the last 30 days and in Taiwan, over the last three weeks, only one case was reported.    The health experts say coronavirus is highly contagious and wearing a mask is sound defense, but in certain areas around the U.S. masks are being banned and in one L.A. retail store hugs and handshakes are encouraged.  This comes on the heels of both frustration after being told to shut down for two months and the culture war over masks that is being fueled in part by President Trump and candidate Joe Biden. (Biden wears one and Trump does not). As people push back against mask wearing and social distancing it is curious to see the daily new case totals rise the last few days 91,000 then 106,000 and today 116,000. Coincidence?
Some people are being diligent, staying home and being creative in the process. The gift of time is one hidden gem in all this pandemic chaos and frustration. Embrace the time you have to start a new project, try a new hobby or get in touch with your creative/artistic self.  Check out this guy who created The Swish Machine with 70 steps and who knows how many feet of real estate. Either way it's very impressive!