Git Up, (But Don’t) Get Out
- Madalyn McKnight
- May 24, 2020
- 2 min read
Although Outkast wrote this song many years ago, just know that you can git up and get out without GETTING UP AND GETTING OUT if you know what I mean. Stay at home if possible. The United States has recorded 100,000 COVID-19 related deaths in less than half a year. Nothing like this has ever occurred in our lifetime. The fact that people are not taking this as seriously as they should is a testament to the corruption of capitalism that seems to be ingrained in the very soil we call home.
100,000 compared to millions of people is a small statistic, but you know what is not small? each and every life that was taken as a result of government negligence in preparing Americans. That 100,000 includes mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, spouses, partners, and loved ones. People are dying horrifically and alone. It’s just a visit to a restaurant or to the mall until it’s your family member or it impacts you personally. Death should not have to hit your family in order for you to take this virus seriously. Epidemiologists and other health officials predict a second wave in the fall when Americans are also fighting the flu.
This should not have to be said, but there will no longer be such a thing as normal. The normal we knew before 2020 is no longer possible to achieve. We just have to be more cautious and pray that this virus does not greet us and destroy our lives. I see packed boardwalks, beaches, and other public places I am really flabbergasted. Asymptomatic or not, no one should not want to even take the chance. After diagnosis, this virus can reak havoc over your organs and that damage will be felt for the rest of your lifetime. I will probably wear a mask in any large gathering I attend for the rest of my life.
I am trying so hard to adjust and it has not been easy physically, mentally, or financially but I thank God that I have the time and flexibility to figure my situation out. Others are not so fortunate as abusive situations become even more abusive and the strain and stress of these times are really putting families in tight spots. The state of our nation and world has really put me to the test, but I am taking it day by day. I have friends who constantly check-in, I try to keep a schedule, and just overall striving to be better and do better.
I am afraid every time I have to leave this house. My anxiety is on ten and the news was already hard to watch but now I have no choice, as it is the fastest way to gain the knowledge I need to protect myself and my family. I need a pedicure, manicure, Brazilian wax, and my hair done, but I have no idea when all of that will be possible. I’m playing everything close to the vest until I feel comfortable or safe enough.
Do what is best for you but also think of others around you. Follow the rules!
*featured image by Tolu Bamwo via Nappy.co
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