What a jolt to societies well being, living with this pandemic.  We collectively were unprepared. The weakness has showed up in every sector and I think we need to take a look at a few.  Not to be critical and nag but to shine a light on a few issues and solicit ideas for improving for the next one.

First we need a TO DO list when the word Pandemic becomes official.  Ensure Provinces and the Federal Government are working together and begin immediately.  Parliament needs to be called for input not debate in the formal sense of the word, in a crisis we need action not the rhetoric of a debate.

The reason I start with the supply chain is if government acts quickly the stores can limit and prevent panic buy and hording.

Black market selling of essentials should come with stiff penalties.   In the future we must have at least some extra essentials for medical system stability.  We have learned this lesson.

Governments have to be prepared to act quickly at all levels day one of a pandemic declaration.  Well informed people behave more positively to change.

One of the issues developing is the lack of understanding as to the reason for what is being enforced.  Example, social distancing. It is not the prime fear you catch it, it’s because you might have it with no symptoms and pass it on to the vulnerable.

The reasoning goes back to another time in America in a case of a challenge of civil liberties.  The courts found you had a right to say what you want, but there is a limit. In this case it was found You cannot shout fire in a crowded theater or behave in a manner that can endanger others.

There is a spiritual element to all of this as well as we reach out to give or receive comfort and assurance that people still care.  For those who attend church there are some pretty innovative ways to worship. The internet services seem to work for one. I am a little concerned that some ministers are sending thee wrong message though.

I have always regarded a Pastor as the Shepard of his flock.  As such the Shepard in a pandemic should think long and hard before arranging a tour of the lions den metaphorically.  In this case putting people in a confined area exposed to the virus. Here are a couple of examples. One a choir practice attended by over sixty people saw more than half come down with the virus and three died.

The second is a sad ending as well.  A Virginia Preacher who defied the odds and kept hold church services passed away as one of the victims.  There are others including his wife that have tested positive. The vast majority of the clergy are responsible people doing their part so it’s sad when a few tempt the odds with tragic results.  

So where do we go from here?  That is a question that is answered with as series of educated guesses.  We have to be sure and we have to learn from others. South Korea seems to have done some things right.  China can share considerable knowledge. Canada has done a reasonable job. Then there is America, well you’ve seen the news footage.  

We are going to experience a lot of pain financially and emotionally when the worst is over.  We are living in our defining moment in history. Regardless we will get through this together.  Everyone is precious to someone so stay safe.