By Jill Richardson
Social distancing is hard, and it’s not fun.
I don’t question that we are doing what is necessary. Until better testing, treatment, and prevention are available, it is. But quarantining us in our homes separates us at a time when we need connection.
And you know what? It’s okay to feel angry about that. It’s important to remember we’re doing this in part because the people at the top screwed up.
Trump fired the pandemic response team two years ago, even though Obama’s people warned them that we needed to work on preparedness for exactly this in 2016. Unsurprisingly, a government simulation exercise just last year found we were not prepared for a pandemic.
Later on, even after the disease had come to the U.S., infectious disease experts in Washington State had to fight the federal government for the right to test for the coronavirus.
It gets worse.
Now we know that Senator Richard Burr was taking the warnings seriously weeks before any real action was taken — and all he did was sell off a bunch of stock, while telling the public everything was fine. Meanwhile, Trump didn’t want a lot of testing, because he wanted to keep the number of confirmed cases low to aid his re-election.
The people we trusted to keep us safe didn’t do that. Now the entire economy’s turned upside down, people are dying, and we’re all cooped up at home.
It sucks. We should be angry.
I’m young enough that I don’t have to worry much about the likelihood of a serious case if I get sick. But I’m staying home, because I don’t want to get it and accidentally spread it to someone more vulnerable than myself.
I’m also aware of the sacrifice many of us are making for the sake of others. Some lost their jobs, while others put themselves at risk working outside the home because they can’t afford not to — or, in the case of health care workers, because they’re badly needed.
Entire families are cooped up together and I’ve heard jokes that divorce lawyers will get plenty of business after this. Parents are posting memes about how much they appreciate teachers now that they are stuck with their kids all day. I’m entirely alone besides a cat.
I worry about the college seniors graduating this year and trying to find a job. What about people prone to anxiety and depression? How much will this exacerbate domestic abuse? What about people in jails, prisons, and detention centers?
Our society is deeply unequal. So while the virus itself doesn’t discriminate, this bigger crisis will hit people unequally. Some don’t have health insurance. Some are undocumented. Some are more susceptible to dying from the disease.
The people in power who screwed up are wealthy enough that they can work from home, maintain their income, and access affordable health care. Others will feel the full brunt of this, not them. It’s not fair.
I’m supportive of doing all we can to prevent the virus’s spread and to protect vulnerable people, but anger at the people whose incompetence put us in this position is justified. We deserve better.
Jill Richardson is the author of “Recipe for America: Why Our Food System Is Broken and What We Can Do to Fix It.” She is a columnist for OtherWords.org.
Markie Lane says
Excellent article. Trump has instead of leading has put us all at risk. He wants praise and gushing but ignores the pleas of the governors for ventilators and PPE. ‘S.
I am angry and horrified by his response.
Percy's mother says
Gov. Cuomo (D-NY) finally admitted on Friday that he already has 4000 ventilators on hand, which are not being used.
He had the opportunity to purchase 15,000 ventilators several years ago; however, turned that down in favor of helping illegal immigrants.
Mike Cocchiola says
Yeah, Percy’s mother, you’re right. Let’s forgive and forget all of the harm the Trump Administration has done during this crisis – denial, distortion, distraction, disinformation, misinformation and outright lies on national TV during Mad Hatter -like press conferences. Let’s hold Gov. Cuomo and “that woman in Michigan” responsible for America’s unforgivable unpreparedness for a pandemic that medical science absolutely knew would come sooner or later. Our national ineptitude has shocked the world.
When Chris Todd asked if Trump had blood on his hands, he asked the right question. Particularly if Trump further degrades our democracy by withholding federal resources from “blue” states.
John says
Let’s stop the politic’ing…
No one is right, no one is wrong.. Let’s focus on what needs to be done at home, in the city a nd in the county to all do our part to get through this.
There will be time enough to finger point, blame and shame or whatever our First Amendment gives us the right to do AFTER we all settle down and take our destiny in our own hands and do what WE know is right.
None of these politico’s know my name or can address my situation. Only I can.. I hope you all do the same.
Elaine says
Omg Stop already. Stop spreading hate. Stop using this as a political platform. Stop trying to brainwash a captive audience People are very sick and dying. People are very afraid. Instead of stirring the pot and inflaming the situation why not encourage prayer. I am so sick of listening to mamby pamby whiny babies pointing fingers at the President. This guy has the weight of the world on his shoulders. He gave up his cushy millionaire life for a job that he doesn’t even get paid for. Is abused continually by the press and more I think it is time to rally around the President instead of perpetuating the hatred and fear. How about asking people to pray for this man. I couldn’t even finish your article because of the negativity. Yeah it’s ok to be angry … but where the hell is it going to get you. There is a much longer list of who to be angry at. How about Pelosi perhaps if this man wasn’t distracted by her witch-hunt impeachment he wouldn’t have been distracted. I don’t see any of you spreading that story. Again, what’s the difference. I have seen the very worst of people. Hoarding toilet tissue. Why, this is a respiratory disease. Everyone is grabbing it so I better get mine. It is especially insane to hoard the disinfectant Don’t you want others to be able to disinfect. Come on enough. It is very easy to want to blame Most people are stuck in the house, isolated and afraid. I say shame on the media The media who has a responsibility to us. Instead they are brainwashing we shut ins perpetuating hate. Listen to podcasts there are some wonderful ones. Meditate, pray, exercise, read a book or get an audio one. Stay away from anything negative The constant wave of negativity and doom is too much. I start to read something, like this article if it gets negative in the first couple of sentences That’s it I’m done. I have the right to choose. Perhaps this was an informative article. I just refused to continue to be a trapped audience and be indoctrinated by some rag media source that insists on spreading hate. Enough is enough. If you don’t have something nice to say then don’t say anything. If you can’t do your job, facts not opinions then find a new one. This is not the time enough already .
Hammock Bear says
Thank you for your timely comment. I totally agree with you ! This is a time to Unite and the haters have to understand that. All the negativity and complaints are a waste of good air. Blame is Not a game. This is a time to be kind and show respect and gratitude for ourselves and each other. No ifs ands or Butts !! Everyone please ,, try to embrace the life you have. This is not dress rehearsal.
Pissed in PC says
You must be a kool aid drinking boomer. He was not rich but just a grifter. His golf games while in office could have paid for ventilators and PPE. He fired the entire pandemic team in 2018. He knew in 2017 when he took office of the pandemic playbook yet refused it. He was so hell bent on undoing everything Obama did that he endangered 321 million people. Impeachment wasn’t a hoax unless your another one that thinks laws, rules and being so entitled doesn’t apply to you. Read the constitution sometime. Turn off your Faux Fake News and try google for great news sources.
Yeah I pray daily for Trump Psalms 109:8
Veronica says
Lol. It’s hysterical you called them a boomer. If they are then you should look up what years pandemics occurred. This would not be a boomer’s first pandemic.
-I believe it was November 8, 2016 that Trump won the presidential vote. He took office in 2017. This would be good for you to know. Apparently you missed the fact that this is an election year. Google it.
-Did you vote? Looks like a no.
-Trump owns several golf courses. Which ones are you referring to?
-What was the other option? Hilary? Please.
-The impeachment was a waste of money. Just like it was for Clinton.
-Back to this pandemic response team that was started in 2015- please fact check this is not 100% true. John Bolton heads it and the team was streamlined because there was overlapping.
I’ll pray for you to learn how to use google and that you get registered to vote. Then you can be pissed about the Electoral College and how that works.
Pissed in PC says
I know how to use google band I can see you get your information from pro republican sites. Yes I voted straight blue just to rid the current swamp.
Veronica says
lmfao
You clearly have no use of search engines. Or how to decipher fact from fiction. Stop skimming and read. Please.
Just added intel… I am red, white, and blue. Don’t cross me with some one sided rhetoric you want believe.
I prefer to see all sides and see what what the world would benefit from.
Pissed in PC says
I know how to google and most republican supported sites show the same garbage Faux News shows. This is political since trump refuses to help blue states. I trust more of what the blue state governors say over DeSantis a trump stoolie who sat back and let the virus be spread over spring break. Get your head out of the sand and don’t drink the kool aid.
Gary R says
Democrats are the one making it political. And, it looks like you will be pissed for another four years. Poor you. LOL
Veronica makes good points and you should listen.
Veteran says
Well said Elaine.
patrick delsordo says
wells said elaine. time to pray for the first responders… the police.. the doctors and nurses in the trenches. i had the privilege of being a volunteer firefighter during the 1985 and the 1998 fires here in flagler county. ’85 pcvfd… ’98 st. johns pk vfd west flagler county. YES… VOLUNTEER… not paid … did it because i love my community since 1982. just like the doctors, nurses, first responders and police in all communities.. time to unite. follow the orders of our leaders. and in time we will be able to come together to celebrate. that time IS NOT NOW. stay home. keep our city, county, state, COUNTRY safe.
KKsays says
You fail to recognize that Trump’s actions, behavior and illegal and inappropriate acts is why he was impeached. If it was a witch hunt, it was a successful one as there were plenty of witches exposed. Pelosi was doing her job as called for in the United States Constitution. The GOP members of Congress ignored their oath of offices.
Christina says
Any recommendations on pod casts?
FlaglerPeace says
Very well said. How can you blame anyone? This is why I got off of several face book sites. People wanting to complain about the President, or local officials for trying to keep them safe.
Our boarders were closed way before others did, and was blasted as being ““This is no time for Donald Trump’s record of hysteria and xenophobia, hysterical xenophobia, to uh, and fear mongering,” Biden continued.”
M.Robert says
Our ruling from POLICIFACT
“Bloomberg said Trump is hampered in the fight against coronavirus because “No. 1, he fired the pandemic team two years ago. No. 2, he’s been defunding Centers for Disease Control.”
On the first point, it’s hard to pin down whether the National Security Council staffers were “fired” in 2018, but they certainly left abruptly and have not been replaced, though other leaders in the coronavirus fight have been named in recent days.
On the second point — funding — there’s no question that the Trump administration sought to cut key CDC budget categories that would be involved in emerging infections like coronavirus. But Bloomberg overlooks that, thanks to Congress, that funding was restored and even increased in bills that were ultimately signed by Trump.
The statement is partially accurate but leaves out important details, so we rate it Half True.”
ON the wealthy being able to work from home…please…many wealthy as you put it have had their businesses shuttered. Stop…Trump is doing as much as he can for the ‘unwealthy’ the stimulus money, the extra unemployment, free testing etc. THIS can not be an easy job, WHO would want to be in his shoes. HOWEVER he is our President, whether you like him or not you need to honor the office of the United States. Divisive and hateful statements that are only half truths hurt the American people.
People are quick to draw blood…but the fact is he did close our borders and it made a difference, and it wasn’t racist. AND he is helping the people, and of course he has to think of the big picture. So if you are unhappy with him…donate your stimulus and or your unemployment to someone else.
patrick delsordo says
are you kidding me ? do you pay attn to anything? or just what CNN says.. you want to be angy? fine.. take it out on the ppl who CAUSED this in the first place… CHINA….PPL NOT LISTENING TO STAY AT HOME ORDERS… PPL NOT LISTENING TO THE SOCIAL DISTANCING ORDERS BY HAVING PARTIES, GOING TO MASS CHURCH EVENTS… are you kidding? how did this become TRUMPS fault ? oh… i know.. you watch CNN… the panddemic response team that was “RE-ASSIGNED due to MILLIONS of taxpayers money being spent without care. the system that was in place would not handle this. no system in place could handle this. a NEW system had to me made either way. and the TRUMP team is doing a great job.. along with our ppl in the field… first responders.. police.. doctors.. nurses.. the ppl FAILING us are thenews outlets that keep saying what the trump team is doing isnt working.. so they go out.. ignore the warnings.. and infect the rest of the nation… u want to be angry????? be angry at the ppl FLOCKING to florida with the virus… Cuomo? he is a lying JOKE. GOD BLESS teh first responders… and everyone in health care. and GOD BLESS our police officers who have to deal with the ppl that dont listen. THAT ANGERS ME.
Sherry says
Excellent article. . . but, in my opinion, it’s too simplistic. . . and “Anger” is not a forgone conclusion for everyone.
It’s likely that even if our government had its act together. . . which it absolutely does NOT. . . we would still need to be self quarantined, to some extent, in the case of such a dangerously contagious and lethal disease outbreak. These are “times that try men’s (human’s) souls”. I think the question is “just how tough are ya”?
Terrible situations like this CAN also bring out the “BEST” in people. Perhaps it’s my Buddhist nature and training, but consider the possibility that we can consciously work through that anger by first making sure it is directed appropriately. We should NOT be directing our anger personally towards our family, loved ones, or people in our community. We can show our love for one another by doing “WHAT IS RIGHT”. We can courageously take the mantle of personal and social responsibility on our shoulders by stepping up and following the guidelines given to us every day by the “medical experts”, and NOT the politicians or media “talking heads”. Together, we could respectfully, without complaint, do everything we need to do to keep us ALL safer. Unfortunately, many of the places where we desire to enjoy nature are not open to us because there are too many people selfishly choosing to break the rules, endangering us ALL. We should endeavor to create a way we could we possibly come together, in a caring way, for the common human good. . . without stressing vital police resources. Think about it. We would all like a completely “SAFE” walk on the beach.
On the other hand, our government leaders remain vastly unprepared, they are often NOT acting on the advice of scientists and medical experts, they have wasted critical time by being in denial, lying to us, and politicizing the situation and the level of assistance. I am always astonished that those elected officials often have forgotten that “they work for us”. “They” often are not to be trusted, and they often do NOT act for the “common good” of ALL our citizens. They absolutely should be held accountable! Yes, they deserve some rath, you bet ya!
Percy's mother says
I agree, we should also not be directing our anger towards government officials who are doing their best under the worst of circumstances, i.e., Republicans and Trump, for instance. If one is going to be a Buddhist, one should be 100% Buddhist. Don’t direct your anger towards ANYONE, if that’s what you want to project outward, don’t be selective about it.
Having spent a lot of time in Tibet, Nepal and India, I am well aware of Buddhist principles and training. Translation of Buddhist principles here in this country leaves a lot to be desired and is often tainted.
An interesting side note, some people quote the Dali Lama regarding his thoughts on animals. Having been to the Dali Lama’s summer palace in Lhasa, I was shocked to learn and see for myself that he kept a zoo of animals captive in tiny cells to the point that they were driven mad from the confinement. That certainly changed my thoughts on some subjects related to Buddhism.
It’s okay to say one is a Buddhist, but know the truth about it also.
Taoist says
The Dalai Lama left Lhasa in 1959 to begin exile in India. I read about the small zoo in “Tibet Wild”.
Percy's mother says
Yes Taoist, you are correct, the Dali Lama lives now in Dharamshala, India (since 1959).
If you read my post, I was speaking about the summer palace and the zoo in the past tense. When he escaped across the Himalayas in 1959, the lions, tigers, etc. were left to starve to death in their cages, or . . . those starved to death that hadn’t gone mad from the tiny cages and confinement in the interim.
Some people also mistakenly assume the Dali Lama is a vegetarian due to his quotes about animals, however, he is a meat eater.
As mentioned, having spent a lot of time in that particular region and enduring the hardships of the altitude and the climate, I have a unique perspective on that particular region. In fact, Tibet is officially now called the Tibet Autonomous Zone of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) ever since the invasion and “re-education” of the Tibetan people. It is a very sad story indeed, which most people don’t know about.
capt says
Sorry Sherry, I agree pretty much 100% but the US and the world as a whole were unprepared for this. Just like the world was unprepared for the Black Death which was also originated in China. YEP that Plague originated in China and was likely spread by trading ships., today we fly and cruise and gather in large crowds. They know that the Black Plague bacillus traveled from person to person through the air, as well as through the bite of infected fleas and rats pretty much how our modern virus started with a bat and mutated to humans. We let history slide. The whole world just forgot and let human safety take a back burner to the trading of goods. Maybe one day humans will learn from their past. With this current situation, I’m not taking a political stance, its too late for that. WE just have to trust in the medical guidelines and people need to do their part and stay away from each other as much as possible. Political bashing of any party will not cure the virus, we as voters will take care of that at election time. Be safe everyone.
Proud American says
I find it horrible that you would publish an article with fake misleading already debunked myths about Trump firing the entire pandemic team.
All these people ready to criticize but not one with any solutions becoming actions.
I can tell you this, during this pandemic, there is no other country I would rather be in and am relieved to know it is with the president we have.
Pissed in PC says
Trump video of him firing the pandemic response team. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/coronavirus-video-trump-pandemic-team-cut-2018-a9405191.html
Trump supprter says
don’t believe everything you hear:
https://www.factcheck.org/2020/03/democrats-misleading-coronavirus-claims/
Stop complaining, do your part, And be productive…
David S. says
What do you expect from Trumpee he has been doing this for the last three years he is not going to stop now.
T.Ellis says
So, no test kits to really identify those that have it *before* they become symptomatic? This is very serious, and why everyone needs to be tested. I hope this is obvious- the virus can live in you, while asymptomatic, you may then spread it to all! Hence, the only fallback, is this quarantine.
Now, we all know influenza has claimed many lives this past autumn, this winter, in fact. But, since it is not tested, could it be these higher numbers were caused by an early COVID-19? It sure could, because we are in the dark, and had no way to know. What a cluster.
Pogo says
@Stay home.
Correct. And stay home means stay home – as much as humanly possible. It means stay the hell out of the way, and out from under foot, of the people who can’t stay home because they’re serving you: health care workers, public safety workers, the people working in pharmacies, the people working in grocery stores and gas stations, the people delivering your necessities to the aforementioned.
@And Be Angry.
Also Correct. We have one president – and no leader. The president is a lying mad man and raging infantile criminal who lives in a continuous temper tantrum. He is president because of the shameless dishonesty and cynicism of the political party he has subverted (they use each other – and loathe each other too) for his personal benefit. They follow him for only selfish reasons. And it (trump) IS only selfish – ever and always.
Get angry and stay angry. Stay informed. Stay calm. Don’t forget – any of what has, and is, happening. Vote accordingly.
Anger and madness are NOT the same thing. Anger, very often, is what summons a person to duty. If there isn’t a duty to oppose trump – there is no such thing as duty.
As for kindness and gentleness:
“…With Major Lawrence, mercy is a passion. With me, it is merely good manners. You may judge which motive is the more reliable…”
– Prince Feisal (Alec Guinness) in the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia
Be polite, when possible, and do your duty.
Jimbo99 says
How many have already been forced into doing social distancing & quarantine in times of prosperity ? I mean, the homeless have been social outcasts for even longer than the greedy & selfish can imagine being in their homes with this. This is the human race at it’s finest. I don’t expect the day the quarantine is lifted for there to be much better from those that we always knew were the liars & cheats amongst us. There will be a scramble to find a way to take back what was lost financially at the expense of anyone ? Take those with or without healthcare, modern medicine’s solution for this, wash your hands thoroughly, blah, blah, blah. Send that healthcare premium every month, no actual cure beyond let the virus run it’s course & hope you’re strong enough to survive it. I knew many were getting paid still when this started that really are grossly non-essential themselves, while others were a matter of using up PTO & Paid Sick Leave banks if they were allowed to even do that by the execs & management.
Pissed in PC says
Yes I’m pissed! My anger is directed at the incompetent moron that calls himself a president and all his fawning sycophants singing praises to him when they don’t have the balls to stop him. They missed their chance in January but Trump was handing out campaign money for his not getting thrown out of office. They sold their soul to the devil! He ruined our nation cause y’all wanted a reality show host but now we’re stuck playing Survivor. I promise you I will Outwit, Outplay and Outlast that mofo!
To all the first responders, nurses, doctors, truckers, grocery store workers and other essential employees, thank you! To all who lost your job or had hours cut, this is only a temporary setback and you will come back stronger and smarter. We got this and we can beat it! If you start feeling helpless please reach out for help. You’re not alone, don’t be a Trump statistic!
Tracy Wells says
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/us/
Jeff says
I got two things from this article (screed) 1. You hate Trump, 2. You think the answers to this problem have to come from the entrenched elected leadership that have been in charge forever.
It seems to me to lay most of the blame on the horrific government of China where the virus originated. All the experts seem to agree that if China had been transparent and honest the entire pandemic could have been handled much differently.
snapperhead says
“All the experts seem to agree that if China had been transparent and honest the entire pandemic could have been handled much differently.”
Who are “all the experts”? Please quote a few so we can see their statements.
Richard says
Keep drinking that Kool-aid and stay hydrated!
A Concerned Observer says
Open letter to Ms. Jill Richardson: Throwing rocks at President Trump (and BTW, it’s “President Trump”, not Trump) for every negative event that happens in the world clearly shows the intellectual level of the writer and their absolute need to blame someone, ANYONE for whatever malady that confronts them at the time.
Think back a few years, if you will. Was our then president Bush responsible for not planning for the hijacking of those aircraft on September 11th? If an author ever published a book with those events prior to them actually happening, no one would have given it a second look as it was too preposterous to believe, even as a fictional novel. Was President Roosevelt at fault for not properly planning for the bombing of Pearl Harbor? Just who would bitch the loudest if President Trump wasted billions of dollars to purchase, store and maintain tens of thousands of respirators in the off chance anything like this current pandemic might transpire? World events happen that no one can logically be expected to predict. When they do, our leaders are expected to react in the best interest of the country, within the restraints of reality. I believe President Trump is doing just that.
With the 20/20 hindsight and a myopic opinion of world events, it is all too easy single out someone to blame for anything. Looking back again, another world leader blamed Jews for his countries ills. Unfortunately, many people believed him. Look what happened.
Whipping up hate for the sake of hate helps no one. Be a part of the solution and not part of the problem. Rather than trying to anger people with your own venomous ideas, try helping people that are doing everything in their power to help others and actually resolve this problem. Thank and support the medical, fire and law enforcement members and the countless volunteers out there that are out there actually doing something to help. I suppose the axiom “Never pick a fight with people who buy ink by the barrel.” Is, I believe attributed to Mark Twain. I also suspect still applies to the electrons now used instead of ink, but what the heck…
KKsays says
Justify Trump’s ignoring the Coronavirus for 2 months while calling it a Democrat hoax to make him look bad. Justify his ridiculous daily news conferences with much false information, is he lying or just ignorant? Can you imagine how difficult it must be for those people in the CDC and the infectious disease doctors and experts who are trying to do their jobs and mitigate, as much as possible, the fallout from COVID-19 and having to stroke his child-like ego and to go behind him and explain and correct the bad information he gives?
Trailer Bob says
“It’s important to remember we’re doing this in part because the people at the top screwed up”.
OK. BLAME, BLAME, BLAME. So mature to get partisan during tough times. Trump did not want or create the virus. Trump was in touch with all the “experts” and I doubt he wanted people to die so he could get re-elected. I am 64 and this isn’t the first epidemic I have lived through. All of them the same…people get sick, quarantine, food and water hoarding, board and miserable, testiness with family members, etc.
The author of the article above is obviously a liberal who doesn’t like that fact that Trump won (via votes). A child who is small enough to try and bring misery to all of us.
Help out your neighbors and take care of your loved ones. Put down the baby rattle and act like an adult.
Some of you never have the sense to know when the time for divisive politics and spreading hate needs a rest.
Sherry says
Meanwhile, there are places in the US where, like the neighborhood singing in Naples, Italy, neighborhoods “CONNECT”. This from our dear friend in San Anselmo, California . . . just over the Golden Gate bridge:
“A funny thing has started in Marin, been happening here in our San Anselmo neighborhood for 3 nights now. People come out on their porch or deck, whatever, at 8pm, and howl like coyotes. Kind of hysterical and heart warming at same time. It’s like “we’re here, we’re a pack!” I’m sure the real coyotes and wondering wtf is going on!!”
Roy says
Amazing how all the other leaders in the world are equally incompetent in this case.
Ld says
Take deep breaths
JEremiah 29:11-14
Richard says
Governor Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio should both be held accountable for the amount of deaths that New York State and New York City will have when this is over. Just imagine if either one of them were our current POTUS, what the state of this country would be in with their lack of preparedness and even telling people to go out and enjoy yourselves and enjoy the parade (which was eventually cancelled) earlier in March when people in NYC were being infected with Covid-19. Yes, our leadership across this country have failed everyone, democrats and republicans alike.
mark101 says
The whole world, its leaders and the media are all incompetent during these times. Everyone wants to play the blame game. But if we were in their shoes, we might be doing the same thing, hard to tell since we are not the ones in power calling the shots. . Its amazing how rabid people really are. Our President is incompetent, but Like one poster noted, vote at election time.
Sherry says
O Beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain.
For purple mountain majesties,
Above the fruited plain.
America! America. God shed his grace on thee.
And crown thy good with brotherhood,
From sea to shining sea.
O beautiful for pilgrim feet,
Whose stern impassioned stress.
A thoroughfare for freedom beat,
Across the wilderness.
America! America! God mend thine every flaw.
Confirm thy soul in self control,
Thy liberty in law!
O beautiful for heroes proved,
In liberating strife.
WHo more than self their country loved,
And mercy more than life.
America! America! May God thy gold refine.
Till all success be nobleness,
And every gain devine.
O beautiful for patriot dream,
That sees beyond the years.
Thine alabaster cities gleam,
Undimmed by human tears.
America! America! God shed his grace on thee.
And crown thy good with brotherhood,
From sun to shining sea!
Gary R says
Joe Biden: I remember fighting the Coronavirus back in Nam, the Germans hit us with a double latte and Mary had a little lamb!
David S. says
Yes I will vote Trump down a million times in November……..
Here Spot says
Me too Bro !!!!
WhackAMole says
I’m not angry one bit. I, for one, love social distancing. I’m not a people person at all and love being with just one or two people that understand me and my need for alone time. It takes a lot of work and energy pretending you’re listening and interested when people talk. I hate socializing and being around others for long, can’t help it, can’t change myself because it doesn’t feel natural being anything other than what I am, so social distancing has been a dream come true.
Don says
I feel the same way. Thank You for sharing your feelings .
Marty Barrett says
Breaking news: this was just confirmed as a giant hoax! Trump people- go mingle, please! Lots of hugs and handshakes
Gary R says
Fack Check. Trump referred to the alleged “politicizing” of the coronavirus by Democrats as “their new hoax.” He did not refer to the coronavirus itself as a hoax. Throughout the speech, Trump reiterates his administration is taking the threat of the coronavirus seriously. Nice try though.
Dale says
This is what Trump said; judge for yourself:
“They tried the impeachment hoax. That was on a perfect conversation. They tried anything, they tried it over and over, they’ve been doing it since you got in. It’s all turning, they lost, it’s all turning. Think of it. Think of it. And this is their new hoax. But you know, we did something that’s been pretty amazing. We’re 15 people [cases of coronavirus infection] in this massive country. And because of the fact that we went early, we went early, we could have had a lot more than that.”
Trump was saying that someone, unnamed, was telling him this. So technically, the Trump supporters are correct that he did not call COVID-19 a hoax. However, taken as a whole and in context with how he talks, Trump did seriously downplay the danger.
DARWINCOAST says
What’s Flagler County schools PARADE today really a good idea?
3/3/2020
Can we get some REAL news on a PARADE with hundreds of CARS and PEOPLE with open windows spreading plague throughout the entire city a GOOD IDEA?
Proud American says
I would like those who are sitting in the comfort of their own homes in pjs, snacking and typing to pause for a minute.
Today, there are cashiers, nurses, janitorial staff, truckers, police, firefighters, garbage men, you name it, who cannot stay home because if they did, none of us would survive.
They all of sudden now also have children home from school that they need to home virtual school, and they too have to go stock up on supplies that are sold out at stores, and they also are trying to stay alive, stay healthy, and are going through this pandemic.
OUR PRESIDENT, our VICE President, our elected officials, our administrators, service men, national guard, etc… are all doing ALL that can be done to make sure that we can make it through this. It’s not easy folks, these men and women look tired, but they are out there actually DOING the work, they don’t get to sit back and criticize.
They are doing a great job. Instead of being angry and blaming get out there go volunteer and do your part, or stay home, Be supportive and cheer them on.
Pissed in PC says
I can get mad all I want to cause that’s my right. I’m sitting at home to lower the curve while all you self entitled idiots are treating this like an extended vacation. Only essential employees should be working. 7 more dead since last night and over 700 new cases. Trump thinks it’s ok to have 100-200k dead from this but we’ve now gone over the amount dead from 9/11 and soon to be over the amount killed in several wars. Some of us don’t have the luxury of volunteering cause we’re high risk.
Joel says
what would the mayor of Tallahassee done
Joel says
if Obama was such a great leader why doesn’t he step in now and try to calm some people down
Pissed in PC says
Cause he ain’t our President right now but I wish he was cause there wouldn’t be this many dead and sick!
David S. says
Agree…..
Enough BS says
Come on now You cant be serious can you?
According to the CDC from April 2009 to April 2010 there were about 60.8 million cases of the swine flu with 12,469 deaths in the United States and 274,304 hospitalizations.
They couldn’t even get our diplomat out of Benghazi.
Stop it please…how about you all stop drinking the media kool aid!
In a few weeks when you realize how corrupt the Obama administration was you still won’t get it.
Sherry says
If this terrible Pandemic had happened during President Obama’s administration, I am absolutely certain that those who are NOW saying that trump should NOT be held accountable would have been “screaming bloody murder” . . . solely because of “partisan perspective”.
Our country’s governmental employees (appointed or elected) SHOULD ALWAYS be “held accountable”. . . especially at the very top! The “buck stops there”! Right now, that means trump! Like it or not!
We are behind the curve for saving lives and terrible sickness for a number of reasons. YES, absolutely, China’s leaders should have been more forth coming. However, that is not something under our control, and they are not “solely” responsible.
What HAS been in our government’s control has been the wasted critical weeks before this virus was finally taken seriously. For example, why didn’t we take advantage of the World Health Organization virus TESTS offered to us months ago? Here are clips of the down playing and politicization of the current federal administration:
David Schaefer says
Agree 100%
Pissed in PC says
Thank you! 👏🏼👏🏼 But the sheeples don’t hear facts 🙉
Sherry says
Now for the Isolation Blues Laugh of the Day:
Need a laugh? Enjoy!
I was on a long line at 7:45 am today at the grocery store that opened at 8 for seniors only. A young man came from the parking lot and tried to cut in at the front of the line, but an old lady beat him back into the parking lot with her cane.
He returned and tried to cut in again but an old man punched him in the gut, then kicked him to the ground and rolled him away.
As he approached the line for the 3rd time he said, “If you old fk-ers don’t let me unlock the door, you’ll never get in there.”
palmcoaster says
Don’t worry about a thing as the My Pillow guy will save us all while free advertising his business in national TV promoted by POTUS! And please no nasty questions fake shameful media and those governors of MI, NY and WA need to be nice to me if they want their PPE’s and ventilators.
palmcoaster says
Kudos to you Sherry agreed 100%. Too bad that we can ask/demand a shark not to eat humans and will be totally in vane.
Sherry says
Blunder after Blunder:
Last week, a Trump administration official working to secure much-needed protective gear for doctors and nurses in the United States had a startling encounter with counterparts in Thailand.
The official asked the Thais for help—only to be informed by the puzzled voices on the other side of the line that a U.S. shipment of the same supplies, the second of two so far, was already on its way to Bangkok.
Trump aides were alarmed when they learned of the exchange, and immediately put the shipment on hold while they ordered a review of U.S. aid procedures. Crossed wires would only confuse our allies, they worried, or worse—offend them. And Americans confronting a surging death toll and shortages of medical equipment back home would likely be outraged.
Vice President Mike Pence soon realized another step was needed: After a phone call asking a foreign leader’s help with key supplies, he ordered his staff to make sure the review process wasn’t holding up coronavirus-related aid to countries that were assisting the United States.
The incidents have spurred the Pence-led coronavirus task force to scrutinize all of USAID’s deliveries to countries requesting personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to fight the outbreak, according to people directly involved in the discussions, causing tensions between aid officials and task-force members.
The administration has also placed a moratorium on overseas shipments of USAID’s stockpiles of protective gear and is asking that the equipment be sent to the U.S. instead, other officials said.
Concerned Citizen says
It’s been a roller coaster of emotions for me.
I am a maintenance technician and service commercial properties in the area. We are considered essential because we provide 24/7 Emergency Services. We ran strong in the beginning and are now starting to feel the pinch as many office parks are barely operating. Hours are being chopped back and once routine schedules are out the window.
We go to work every day and do the best we can. I am fortunate because while I am alone when not working I have made new friends and have been able to look out for our seniors and disabled. It’s only when I get home and am by myself I really worry and have had a few meltdowns. LOL
I am prior Military having served over seas. I was a Deputy Sheriff for 6 years then retired out of Fire Rescue. I have seen and dealt with every possible situation imgainable. Until this came along. These are scary times for us. We are fighting an unseen enemy that no one knows how to deal with. It doesn’t matter if it’s intentional or just nature doing it’s thing.
The biggest thing we can do for each other is to show solidarity and respect. Instead of hating ask what can we do to help ourselves. Let’s use this time to do the right thing and we will prevail. Of one thing is certain. LIfe is going to be different after this. And better get used to it fast.
Please know there are members of our community who are here for one another. Ask if you need help. There is no shame in it.
Sherry says
A truly beautiful message “Concerned Citizen”. . . thank you for all you do! You are loved much more than you know!
Outsider says
Why not blame those responsible for the virus? It’s the Chinese, who covered it up, with the help of the World Health Organization, and continue to lie about it to this day.
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/mar/30/china-researchers-isolated-bat-coronaviruses-near-/
https://dailycaller.com/2020/03/28/taiwan-china-who-coronavirus/
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=who+praises+china+efforts+to+control+virus+video&docid=608026609716496476&mid=4532BBE8492C0B1E90064532BBE8492C0B1E9006&view=detail&FORM=VIRE