The Things We Do

It’s easy to help when you’re doing something. But if you’re like me, helping by doing nothing is really difficult.

It’s counter-intuitive. It’s contradictory to our “get-er done” ethos. And it’s hard. But while we wait for the testing and other data that will allow us to ease back into what will surely be a new normal, their are things we can do to help.

• Give blood. If you haven’t done it in a while and are relatively healthy, contact the Red Cross or your local blood bank (my appointment is at the Stanford Blood Bank tomorrow).
• Help out at your local food bank. Many people who are regular volunteers are also in the older age group that is more susceptible to the Corona virus, so food banks need help distributing food to the record number of people seeking assistance. In the San Francisco Bay area, Second Harvest food bank has a calendar where you can sign up for a shift to help.
• Reach out to friends, relatives, and even acquaintances to check in. California Governor, Gavin Newsom suggested each of us make five contacts—phone, text, email, or even send a card—especially with our older citizens.
• Take care of yourself and your family. Wash your hands, wear a mask, practice physical distancing when you’re out or taking your walk.

And remember, staying at home is hard, but it’s necessary so we can get a handle on this crisis. As the famous English poet John Milton wrote, “They also serve who only stand and wait.”