Let’s get something straight. Living Mindfully is not the same as apathy or passivity. Mindfulness means living in the present moment. Taking in the full measure of what is going on in that moment and responding appropriately instead of reacting out of fear or anger.
Currently, the information coming out of our government and local leaders does not run parallel to the facts from the medical profession. Politics and economics are running the show. How can we do our best for ourselves and others if we are not clear on the facts?
Another neighboring school district had a case of the corona virus confirmed today. Instead of closing the school for cleaning the district hired an outside cleaning company to do the cleaning before the students and staff arrived! If it is safe to keep students and staff in the same building then why is this company wearing hazmat suits? Politics and economics play a vital role in education just as it does in government and business.
We know that many students are hungry and possibly homeless. Attending school could be the best thing for them. Providing a meal and shelter as well as social interaction and an education is crucial. But, is this the best way?
Many of our classrooms are already over-crowded. Students sit elbow to elbow for 60-90 minutes in every class. The amount of coughing and sneezing this time of year is extreme. Schools are a hot bed of opportunity for community spread. 2 custodians in one 6A high school cannot wipe down and keep clean all the places people touch.
Some teachers are being asked to provide wipes and hand sanitizer for their classrooms. How do you do this when the store shelves are empty?
Where is the Mindfulness in all of this? It is in responding with logic, questions, compassion, listening to your gut for the difference between right and wrong. Just because a person with authority said something doesn’t make it so.
We have an ethical and moral obligation to respond with the intention to put human life first. Not the almighty dollar or reputations.
Many Mindfulness leaders stand up for justice without using violence or anger. Compassionate logic without staying silent is critical.
Support the medical profession and people who are working to bring the facts to bare. We can solve this crisis together.