Are You Essential?

Everyone wants to be essential. Perhaps everyone thinks they’re essential. 

And chances are, in many situations, you are. 

But today, in our given state and COVID-19 climate, we’re not as “essential” as we think we are, and comparatively, the behaviours and tasks that were so very important even a few days ago, are really not. 

The actual definition of “essential” is: absolutely necessary; extremely important. What is more essential than our health and the health of our families? 

And yet, everywhere I turn, people are blatantly disobeying strict recommendations to practice social distancing and self-isolation. Is it essential to get that coffee? Is it essential to play hockey with your buddies in the schoolyard? Is it essential for you to go to work in an office when you can very well (and safely work from home?!)?

No. No. No.

It’s not essential. 

You don’t NEED to do much here. What you NEED to do is stay at home. Get some fresh air while practising social distancing. 

Doctors and nurses and medical personnel NEED to work, and I thank them wholeheartedly for their service during their scary time. Police officers NEED to keep our streets safe and our judicial system NEEDS to run. While you may NEED to get groceries, many grocers have provided online or even email ordering and curb-side pick up. And should you have to go into a store, you certainly don’t need to bring your entire family for the adventure. (I realize and understand there are a few other industries that are actively working at this time, but again, how many really NEED to be?)

This virus is spreading rapidly and there are many reports saying it could last much longer than the few weeks we are prepared for. Now is not the time to be stubborn, ignorant or selfish. We have heard the messages over and over again. You may be spreading the virus without even knowing it. 

What’s essential is we’re being responsible.

What’s essential is we’re helping to flatten the curve.

What’s essential is we get through it together.

What’s essential is our health and the health of our families. 

Because if we’re sick, how essential can we be?