Introduction
The coronavirus has created a crisis globally. The media has played a significant role in creating this crisis. As a result of this crisis, countries have implemented major restrictions, people have made many changes to their personal plans and companies are experiencing major setbacks which in turn will impact employees and the respective countries ultimately.
Even though the outcome looks adverse for us in the Caribbean in terms of the number of tourists cancelling their flights in the height of the business season, we need to find the ways and means to overcome this crisis.
Information overload
There is an overload of information regarding this virus. While some of the information is factual, there is still a lot of information that is misleading. Overcome this crisis by reducing the number of sources you are getting your information from.
Know the facts
With all the information overload, it is important that you know the facts about this virus. I must commend Dr. Slattery on his postings about this virus and I encourage all of you to read this. To date, in my opinion, his articles were very informative and provided us with the facts about this virus. While we must be cautious, when you know the facts, you will discover that some of the information is blown out of proportion.
Communicate
Most times in life, when there is limited communication, people tend to make a lot of assumption communicate their own theories and sometimes spread a lot of rumours. Therefore, it is important to communicate frequently whether there is a crisis or not. The Government in their recent press statement has announced it will provide daily updates. This is a great initiative and hopefully through these daily updates, it can dispel some of the rumours.
Follow the advice
We have been provided with several guidelines in dealing with this virus such as washing your hands frequently, cutting out junk food and maintaining a good diet. Follow the advice provided by reliable health practitioners and the Ministry of Health.
Working together
In times of crisis, this is a not a time for anyone to use crisis to gain political mileage even though it is a good measurement tool on how effective leaders are in times of crisis. In order to overcome this crisis, we all need to work together, the Government and Opposition need to unite and develop realistic plans for the country. The public and private sector need to come together to develop solutions and plans to address the impact that this crisis will have on our country.
Do not be afraid
A crisis such as the coronavirus can create a lot of fear especially when it can impact the health and wealth of an individual. However, fear will make matters worse so we must remain calm and have faith this too shall passed.
Repent and pray
The word of Lord says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 “if my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and I will forgive their sin and will hear their land. Therefore, let us heed to this verse so that we can overcome this crisis.
Conclusion
While this article is about the coronavirus, the aforementioned steps can be applied to any crisis in your life. I believe we can overcome this crisis or any other crisis in our lives. Hopefully after this coronavirus crisis is resolved, we will not take life for granted and we will change the way we behave.