One of the symptoms that goes unnoticed, and remains undiscussed during this COVID-19 pandemic is fear. If our ancestors did not recognize threats with fear you or I would not be here. Most of us have heard of the term “Fight or Flight Response.” There is, of course, another biological occurrence when we experience fear; it’s called freeze.
Fear wears many disguises, and over time we have evolved to recognize threats to our existence. Shame or regret is another way to experience fear of past circumstances or actions. Anxiety boiled down simply means to be afraid of the future or present. We know this and most mental health professionals can provide their clients with coping skills to overcome shame, regret, and anxiety. Sounds simple right? Just use these simple skills and all your problems vanish.
But nothing is so simple.
Why is that? Well, life is not stagnant and we are in constant flux. Our minds included. Just a short while ago Duluth was getting excited about the tourism season. Now our hope for spring and summer tourism has been dashed, and city leaders are fearing a financial crisis.
It saddens me to watch our leaders of today. Many of whom are using this pandemic to make excuses for irrational decisions. Robbing the future from our children. Many who seem to be overcome by fear.
The way I would describe it is this:
F- orget
E- verything
A- nd
R- un
We collectively have to gain some clarity during this current state of affairs. So how can we overcome our own individual fears so, perhaps, we can get through this? It must begin with us as individuals.
We must:
F-ace
E-verything
A-nd
R-ise
How? Humanity has dealt with wars, famines, and pandemics in our past. First, we must determine what is in our control and what isn’t? What can you do right now at this very moment to improve your current situation? Don’t rely on the leadership, because most of them will disappoint.
It’s time to face that COVID-19 is here. We must continue to work and provide for ourselves and our families using our individual intelligence to maintain safe health practices.
Let’s remind our elected officials that we are freedom-loving people who won’t bury our heads in the ground. That we can stand on our own two feet.
Let’s remind them that they can’t rob our future.
Let’s Rise! Hoping that we may inspire some courage and sanity to our current leadership.