To say the coronavirus (COVID-19) is a “wake-up call” would be the understatement of the year, which is (already?) too long. Everyday disruptions to our lives and livelihoods can be an unsettling, rude awakening, to say the least. But in place of our usual thoughts and prayers during this time of crisis, our country is getting a much-needed culture shock.
In a matter of days, the news coverage on the pandemic has progressed from being a distant dilemma to deadly and at our doorstep. Governments are scrambling to pacify the panic. An impending recession is all but certain. Meantime, societal comforts, like breaking bread at your favorite restaurant, have been either quarantined or canceled.