In some political circles, the phrase “an audience of one” often refers to those seeking to impress a single person rather than any group, special interest or cause. It appears that now, the audience for gatherings has been reduced to none. During a period of distress and unease, it is difficult to gain a broad prospective on events since those involved – in this case, all of us – face the challenge to resist the temptation of surrendering to an overwhelming sense of despair and resignation. In the midst of this bruhaha, a well-known saying, “When you're up to your neck in alligators, it's hard to remember that your initial objective was to drain the swamp” cautions against losing sight of the original goal.
During the decades of publication of Tri-City Voice, I have learned that the communities we serve are vibrant and resilient, oriented toward positive aspects of family, friends and neighbors. I firmly believe this attitude will prevail. Tri-City Voice will attempt to keep our communities informed of relevant activities and actions, but actions by authorities are moving at such a fast pace that many events and programs planned in the next few weeks have been canceled, postponed or modified. We will maintain an open line of communication with our civic and organizational partners to include the best information possible, but remind our readers that it is wise to check with sponsors and venues prior to attendance.
Tri-City Voice is optimistic about the future and our collective ability to rebound from the draconian measures in place at this time. Recognizing the need to isolate and defeat the threat of COVID-19, it is imperative for all of us to adhere to the informed analysis and response required to return to a normal state of affairs. Panic and irrational behavior impedes eventual recovery and has no place in the midst of a crisis. We must rely on local and regional authorities who have the responsibility and planning expertise to provide guidance. So far, local actions have been reasonable and measured. As painful as these actions have been, it is of critical importance that we, the public, give our attention and commitment to their efforts.
Although closure of many public facilities and institutions is painful, it is a necessary step and should result in an orderly and hopefully rapid return to normalcy. During any large-scale operation such as this, there will be errors and mistakes. There will be plenty of time later for a postmortem of actions and procedures, so the best course now is to be resolute by supporting and embracing our family, friends, neighbors and community. Avoid perpetuating rumors without substance and information without context. As Franklin Delano Roosevelt said in his inaugural address March 4, 1933 when the United States was mired in the depths of economic depression:
“This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory.”
When confronted with a universal threat, it may feel as if there is an audience of none, but actually, the audience and our responsibility has expanded exponentially. This nation has succeeded when faced with severe crises in the past and will do so again.