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Staying positive in a Pandemic

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Seraiah Wolf
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs

GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- On Dec. 31, 2019, a novel virus was detected in China, by Jan. 30, 2020, the outbreak was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and by March 13, the U.S. President declared a state of National Emergency in response to the COVID-19 epidemic.

Amidst all of the news, updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, memes, poking fun, and concerns, there are efforts being made to slow the progression of this disease. How does this affect military members?

Different bases are addressing the virus in ways they can. For some, this includes working from home or adjusting schedules to limit the chance of spreading the virus.

“As much as what is going on sucks, I like working from home,” said Senior Airman Brianna Cash, 17th Comptroller Squadron financial analyst. “Sometimes I get into a groove and I am able to get a lot more done than if I was distracted or left the office for lunch.”

Cash shared how now since her and her husband have less options for going out, they have been playing board games and finding new ways to spend time together at home. Despite some travel plans being postponed, Cash mentioned they are content finding different ways to have fun at home and wait for news regarding when travel is allowed again.

“I have been focusing on what I can do instead of what I can’t,” said Senior Airman Ivan Esguerra, 17th Communications Squadron cyber systems operator. “While I may not be at work as much, along with this limited movement order, I have more time to myself.”

Esguerra noted that with extra time available he is able to dive back into some of his personal hobbies such as painting and playing the piano.

With the new technology available Esguerra suggested thinking of the different ways that are available to stay in touch with others.

“While we may not be able to physically see our friends as often, we have even more time to socialize online and catch up with old friends,” said Esguerra. “I know in my case, this has given me the opportunity to reconnect with really good friends of mine that I haven’t contacted in a very long time!”

During this time, don’t forget little things available to stay resilient and still follow any orders that may limit or change your normal routine. If you have a pet, take them for a walk outside.Video chat with a friend while walking or watching a movie. If it is just you, reach out to friends and family that may be physically far away but through technology you can be in contact. Talk with your supervisor about what interesting activities are still allowed during the limited movement order for physical fitness. 

Remember that you are not the only one going through this, we are all here for each other. Reach out, stay connected, and stay positive.