We need our WWII spirit

People are angry at governors over COVID restrictions, feeling these actions simply hamper economic recovery and restrict freedoms. It’s worth asking if this anger is misplaced. Governors react to situations threatening the well-being of their states. An unwillingness on the part of citizens to self-regulate dictates that actions to protect the population are necessary.

In previous generations, challenges were met with an inclination to sacrifice for the common good. It was seen as patriotic, not a threat to one’s freedom, to work together to defeat a common enemy.

In WWII, people willingly submitted to rationing of firewood, oil, shoes and food. Durable goods were not produced and there was a severe shortage of new homes. Blackouts were imposed along both coasts, and taxes for the highest earners reached 94%. Gasoline rationing of 3 gallons per week per family severely curtailed travel. And yet, through all of this, our citizens mostly agreed they were willing to make these sacrifices for the good of their nation.

Can we not rise to the level of patriotism displayed by previous generations? Our rate of infection is the worst in the world and we’ve hit 3,000 deaths a day. How is this acceptable? By working together we could vanquish this virus.

Many people are suffering. Do your part. Help your neighbors, order take out food, and patronize small business. Listen to our doctors and scientists, they’re the best in the world. And PLEASE, wear a mask and avoid gatherings.

Karen Heffner

Greenacres