#Humanup: A Call to (In)action

Before COVID-19 (“BC”), we all sought mindfulness. We talked about slowing down and eschewed our “busyness.” We vowed to meditate, refocus, and connect with each other on a basic level.

But after this weekend, I find this all, well, ironic. Why is it that when we find ourselves in a COVID-19 world we can’t draw upon what we desperately wanted BC? Restaurants and bars are crowded. So many are still socializing (and posting about it!) instead of staying in or going to the park while practicing social distancing. I don’t get it. Now is the time to do the things we always talked about doing.

The slogan “man up” has been around forever. We all know what it means. I used to watch Veep and loved the phrase “ma’am up.” Attorney and non-profit founder Mirna Santiago reminds us to “woman up” on her website. I draw upon these now for the inspiration and reminder to “human up.”

I vow to #humanup so those at risk stay safe and that my family and friends can stay safe. Health is wealth! I will stay home aside from getting fresh air in my yard or going for a brief solo walk while centering my thoughts. I will #humanup to support local businesses with takeout orders or gift card purchases while I still can. I will #humanup and focus on doing the things I sought desperately to do BC: slow down and focus on what matters, spend time with family, exercise, and prioritize gratitude. Most of all, I will #humanup because we are all in this together.