I know this is CONTROVERSIAL but please keep an open mind and heart.
As much of the world chants the collective mantra of “stay at home” and many of you react with anger to the people protesting an end to the global shutdown, please take a moment to CHECK YOUR PRIVILEGE and consider that not everyone has the same reality.
It is easy to chant “stay at home” and be angry at those who don’t do the same or share the same sentiments – if you are financially okay, have plenty of savings, are receiving unemployment, have a safe home, have a home, or don’t have to worry about how to feed your family.
Not everyone has the same PRIVILEGE.
There are many many many (3 many’s to make my point) who have no money, lost their job, have kids to feed, are immigrants, live in homes with domestic violence, are in isolated and desolated situations, suffer from mental illness and are now left alone, are in extreme poverty, have no home, or other very vulnerable situations.
Some will not qualify for any aid or financial assistance due to being undocumented, immigrants, or homeless.
Some have a hard time accessing the internet or even a telephone.
Some have great difficulty just accessing clean water to drink or cook with.
Not everyone has the LUXURY of lounging in their PJ’s, getting fat on snacks, and binge watching Netflix.
Not everyone can work from home. Not everyone will receive a loan or unemployment. These people still need to be housed, eat, pay bills, etc.
For all of you so adamant that everyone should stay home – to the degree you shame them if they don’t or post angry things online about those who aren’t at home or are protesting for change – are you willing to donate money and supplies to those in need? Are you willing to do anything to help those who don’t have your privilege?
I understand that this current situation affects all of us. We are all experiencing some degree of hardship. Some far more than others. Please try to see beyond your personal reality and think of all those who are suffering far more than you by being denied access to work and income, to child care services, mental health help, community support, or even just the safety of being away from an abuser – even for a few hours each day.
I feel we need to reconsider our approach to the concept of social distancing and depressing the economy. All lives matter – not just those with the biggest voices and the most privilege.
Fear has been getting out of hand. It is time to get centered with compassion and a willingness to see the BIG PICTURE and consider ALL LIFE. 🙏
By Bruce Dirmeger
