In the late 60s, as the war in Vietnam was raging, fear and resentment divided the nation. Attitudes were sharply divided between support and opposition while many were stranded in the middle with fervent wishes for resolution and return to a calm, “normal” life. Artists reflected these emotions and attempted to capture the passions and drama of the times. Among the songs that mirrored the angst felt by so many, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards penned a classic song, Gimme Shelter, that expressed the anxiety, hostility and tenor of a generation; the sounds and words were rough but meaningful:
Ooh, a storm is threatening
My very life today
If I don't get some shelter
Ooh yeah I'm gonna fade away
Prior to that time and since, this country has endured challenges that, as Thomas Paine wrote in his 1776 revolutionary series of pamphlets, The American Crisis, “THESE are the times that try men’s souls.” He counseled his fellow citizens, “The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.”
The predicament we face today is no less awesome but we, as communities of the southeast Bay Area, can overcome these difficulties. While the terminology of “shelter in place” seems incongruous with the reality of what is being asked of us, the effect of restrictions and loss of livelihood is undeniable.
Using an expression and warning previously applied to brief and transitory occurrences in a situation that may, and probably will, extend for a lengthy period of time, points out the importance of proper language when addressing critical situations. Clear tone, attitude, orders and expectations are essential for compliance. Anticipated to last for weeks, if not months, the shelter in place directive is ambiguous and indistinct, raising a host of questions. For many, beside the issue of providing basic necessities, ancillary questions will arise: “What do I do now? What about the kids?”
Suggestions to survive, and even thrive, during this turbulent period are surfacing from experts and others who have found balance amidst the storm. Financial stress is a constant for everyone – proprietor and employee – but beyond that major trepidation are opportunities for at least a bit of psychological shelter.
Those fortunate enough to enjoy time-consuming hobbies allowed under current circumstances may have no problem converting time and energy to their pastime. However, some do not have a ready alternative. An answer for people of all ages may lie with organizations that promote the common good and are in dire need of volunteer labor in a wide variety of disciplines. Although some organizations have reduced their scope of service, others cannot without endangering the lives and welfare of their clients. This would be a good time to reach out to a charitable organization to see if they can use your time and/or expertise.
Thomas Paine noted the great challenge of his day was not a place for “summer soldier” or “sunshine patriot.” Neither is this.
Some advice from those who deal with the psychological trauma of uncertainty counsel developing routines that create a sense of order. Within that structure, and as a shelter from adversity and uncertainty, a bit of volunteer effort can help to weather the COVID-19 storm and give perspective to our lives.