From a (Social) Distance
What a time to be alive (typed in sarcasm font, obviously). Older folks are saying they've never seen hysteria like this in their lifetime. As we navigate some uncharted waters ahead with the latest Coronavirus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends “social distancing”—a term that epidemiologists are using to refer to a conscious effort to reduce close contact between people and hopefully stymie community transmission of the virus.
While we are being advised to stay home and help flatten the curve (insert clever introvert meme here), it seems that many (per my social media newsfeeds) are at a loss for what to do with themselves and need some “handholding.” Here are some things you can do from a distance:
Support nonprofit organizations and the arts - The lifeblood of many nonprofits, including museums, the arts, and charitable organizations, are special events, most of which are being postponed or cancelled as we speak. Consider making a donation to an organization that may have had to sacrifice in-person fundraising and show that you (virtually) stand with them.
Buy now, use later, support local - Support a local business (bars and restaurants, boutiques and shops, movie theaters, etc.) by purchasing a gift certificate to use at a later date. My husband is literally heading as I type this to one of our local favs, Living Roots Wine + Co, to scoop a few bottles and show our support—they’re even offering call ahead curbside pickup. This morning, I purchased a breakfast sandwich from my go-to Tree Town Cafe via Grubhub, and received a priceless GWP (gift with purchase for those not in the know) with my order—a roll of individually wrapped toilet paper along with an Irish blessing. I’m pretty sure TP is now more valuable than gold in the United States. Grubhub even offers a “no-contact” drop-off option, where the driver will leave your order at your door to avoid physical contact. (Note: If ordering something for delivery, please tip, and tip well)
Learn something new online - With websites like Skillshare, MasterClass, and even YouTube, there are endless options for learning something new while in social isolation. Some platforms even offer a free trial, so get after some no-cost knowledge. I’m personally planning to brush up my tambourine skills, stay tuned for more on that.
Make stuff together (separately) - The #antisocialartshow movement is genius IMO. “The important thing is that you embrace the opportunity to create something. And then snap a picture of it and share it with the world from the comfort of your own space. Just use the hashtag #antisocialartshow.” Get crafty, musical, or creative in the kitchen, the choice is yours. The only rule is to use what you’ve got on hand in your space, because it defeats the purpose if you go buy supplies from the store.
Host a virtual happy hour - I had a Zoom conference this morning with my TEDxRochester team, and it got me thinking, why not host a video conference over cocktails. FaceTime, Google Hangouts, Skype, the video chat world is yours, so stay connected and drink responsibly (at home). And yes, I realize I shouldn’t be thinking about happy hour at 9am, but to each their own.
Check in on elders and other vulnerable populations in your neighborhood - Give them a call, see what they need, and deliver (or arrange delivery) to their doorstep.
Netflix and chill - The truth is, we will never run out of things to stream. Gone are the days of “there’s nothing to watch”—a statement that I’m pretty sure I uttered often as a whiney pre-teen. Time Magazine even curated a list of “10 Movies About Social Distancing to Watch While Practicing Social Distancing” for your viewing pleasure, including indie gem Lars and the Real Girl. On my list of things to finish watching this weekend is the HBO docuseries, McMillion$, about the McDonalds Monopoly game scam throughout the 90s. Real Talk: My husband and I think that FBI agent Doug Mathews is the best part of the show, see for yourself.
Be mindful of mental health - This pandemic can do a number on our physical AND mental health, bringing stress and anxiety levels to an all-time high for some. Check out this article titled “How to survive coronavirus anxiety: 8 tips from mental health experts” and remember to check in (via text or call) on loved ones and those who are prone to feelings of anxiousness and other mental health vulnerabilities, especially during times of increased isolation.
While this is not an all-inclusive list, it’s a start, and meant to keep things a little lighter. Keep an eye out for additional ways you can help your local community, especially those who may have limited or situational access to necessities like food, housing, and childcare. I recognize that this list comes from a place of privilege, and for many, the idea of simply relaxing at home while riding this thing out is just not an option.
Do what you can to help increase social distancing in order to slow the spread of the virus, minimize a spike in the number of people getting sick all at once, so we can hopefully avoid overwhelming our hospital system.
And if you want to watch some old school Bette Midler (pre-Hocus Pocus), click here.