The world’s medical and political leaders have necessarily made some critical decisions in recent weeks. In the process, our vocabulary has evolved. They have us using unfamiliar words and phrases like pandemic, settle-in-place and social distancing.
I believe that the creation and popularization of these words and phrases proves once again that: Haste make waste. Some of the language can be misleading, inaccurate or both.
To help us cope, I offer some brief thoughts on the impact these terms.
The letters of this word create a PANIC sandwich; PANdemIC. What are we supposed to do when faced with a pandemic? How do you not consider panic as an answer?
Urgency and diligence are more productive attitudes. Panic? How does that help?
It took a few days for me to remember the phrase that defines the most important thing we’re supposed to do. Not as long as it took to understand the term: “stay home”. Critical advice for children of all ages.
This term was also used after the mortgage implosion. I hate it. Using it is a concession I’m unwilling to make. What we have is certainly new. And, our newly adapted behaviors need to become more habitual. But is is not permanent. I struggle to accept this as normal. So I prefer to call label this:
When we come out of this and safely reach the other side, we can then reach a state of normalcy. That will be a New Normal.
The Seinfeld sitcom gave us the terms: Close Talker and Sidler. Dated references, perhaps. But wonderful humorous examples of of behavior that’s even more unacceptable in our brave new world.
We don’t get a do-over on what to call not Close Talking or Sidling. I wish we did. Social Distancing implies that we need to distance ourselves socially. As social beings, we’re going to struggle with the connotations of the phrase; Social Distancing. Especially after weeks of settling in place. These are times that we all benefit from social support. Perhaps more than ever.
What we need is physical separation and social connection. The absence of Close Talking and Sidling is physical separation. Please don’t allow the popularized term make you anti-social or diminish your efforts to maintain your important relationships.
Since I’m sharing nostalgic videos, you might remember that the headline above used to be a advertising slogan for long distance telephone service. Another was…
Reach out and touch someone!
Enjoy the catchy jingle and the encouragement to connect to maintain your important relationships; personal and professional.
Today’s tools like FaceTime, Google Hangout, Skype and Zoom have replaced long distance calling of old. That said, picking up the phone still works. An ill timed FaceTime call can lead to rejection as many are less presentable in our new abnormal lifestyle. So seek advance permission for video communication.
We all still have our phones and long distance fees no longer apply. So allow me to ask:
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