The Way We’ll Conveniently Forget

Well, this is it—the final installment of the three-part series on how the world is changing due to Coronavirus.

Part one focused on how the way we work is being altered, while the second edition keyed in on the fundamental shifts in communication.

And the third takes a counter stance to them both.

With certain restrictions lifted on businesses, parks, and social interaction, you can question the merit to what I said previously.  

Perhaps it was wishful thinking? Or maybe it’s nothing more than a reflection of the changes I’m going through personally? Or both?

The latter seems likely. And I’d still wager I’m not alone.

Some of us will change. We’ll strive towards a new way of working—a way that provides us with purpose, happiness, and fulfillment. We’ll embrace new technology to communicate more efficiently, and we’ll covet deep connections like never before.

But all it takes is one look at the thousands of people gathered in Trinity Bellwoods Park over the weekend to suggest that most will choose to fight for things to go back to, “the way they were before.“

They’ll choose to forget.

That type of mentality is seen all over the world, not just in our own backyard—from ludicrous conspiracies on the internet to the protestor in dire need of a haircut—there is a complete disregard and disrespect for the common good.   

The way I see it: we’ve gotten bored of the pandemic. It’s been collectively decided that we’re tired of being in crisis.

It’s over; it’s time to move on.

“Hey, Davis, your pessimist is showing!”

Admittedly, my cynical side believes this to be true, but please don’t misunderstand. I am sympathetic to the struggle.

Summer is just around the corner, and we’re longing for sunny days on the beach; we’re eager to throw parties with friends and visit our families; we want to travel again, experience the magic of a live concert, and sit down to a nice dinner at our favourite restaurants.

Restlessness is building.  

Not to mention, the implications of isolation and mental health cannot be understated. Some of us are suffering—and some are more privileged than others.

Then there’s the necessary evil of restarting the economy.

My father—while no authority on the topic—believes we are facing a worldwide depression. And it’s hard to argue with his logic.

There are many who believe Canada is already in a recession, and the longer the economy is put on hold, the harder is becomes to kick start the engine. We are closing in on the point of no return.

If that happens, the toll on human life will be too great to pay. A scary thought, indeed.    

So, that leads to the questions:

• Can we find balance between lifting restrictions and remaining vigilant about the well-being of others?
• Can we continue to embrace new ways of working and communicating while integrating into a new way of life?
• Can we accept that things will never be the same and see a different way forward?
• Can we work together on all levels and better prepare ourselves for the next crisis?

The optimist believes we can, but my prediction is two steps forward and four steps back.

Like a drunkard lurching back and forth as he stumbles home—we’ll find safety eventually, but we’re destined to fall on our faces before we do.

The second coming of Corona

I’ll close by admitting that I drank the Koolaid.

The World Health Organization (WHO) claims we are “right in the middle of the first wave, globally.”  

It’s not a second wave of the virus to be concerned about; it’s the second peak of the first wave that poses immediate threat.

So, on behalf of those who are most vulnerable, those battling on the front lines, and our selfless healthcare workers, please continue do your part to flatten the curve.

Accept it: there’s no going back to the way it was before. Choosing to forget and pushing against the unstoppable wave of change is pointless.

Worse, it’s a dangerous act of ignorance.

I also call on our government—local, provincial, and federal—to make adapting to the oncoming change accessible for everybody. Don’t bury us with debt and rollbacks on tax benefits and continue to seek solutions for the less fortunate.

Businesses must also play their part.

Customer service does not go unnoticed during an economic downturn, and there is an opportunity to step up and be a leader. Serve your customers faithfully; help them achieve their goals, solve their problems, and heal their pains.

“Keep your chin up, kid”

I’m hopeful that by working together, we will see the end of this pandemic sooner rather than later.

And while the timeline is uncertain, I choose to remember the lessons we’re being taught instead of longing for a past that has passed us by.  

Change is the only constant—there’s no going back from here.   

What do you think will remain in the wake of COVID-19?

Will we continue to bullhead against the wave of change; will we allow history to repeat itself again…and again…and again?

Will you change, or you will you forget?

Stay safe out there, my friends—see you on the other side.