Stories from the Road (Blog): Live Long & Prosper (Patreon)

I decided to blog my thoughts cuz I can't seem to put together a coherent podcast to talk about COVID-19, but I think it's important that we do talk.

The main thing I want to convey is the Vulcan greeting--live long and prosper. In particular, the hand motion. 

I'm sure you've seen it...

Just remove the finger picks, and you're all good.

I mention it because I plan to use that greeting a lot more over the next few months.

Not hugs.

The Vulcan greeting...

I sharpened my chops on the Renaissance festival circuit. There, everyone hugs. It's a natural part of life. It's like breathing at faire. You see an old friend. And you hug.

I like it.

It suited me very well when I played more faires.

So when I started seeing the memes about the Vulcan salute. I thought it was funny. 

But I would never do it. 

Because... I like hugging those old and new friends. 

It's friendly. It's personal. 

But it's also irresponsible.

My mom is retired in Italy. Italy is one of the hardest hit countries in the world. The whole country is now on lock down. 

They have one of the oldest country populations. Older folks and people with cardiovascular disease are more likely to be hurt by the virus. 

But you know what they do in Italy? 

BACI!!!!!!

Kiss one side of the cheek. Kiss the other side of the cheek. CIAO!

That's normal for Italians.

But the Coronavirus spreads easily as is. The World Health Organization recommends keeping 2 meters (6 feet) distance from others.

Mi dispiace, ma no 'e possibile. (I'm sorry, but no).

It's tradition.

The simple fact is that this virus is here. And quite likely, it'll keep coming back even after it dies down later this year. Sure, we may get a vaccine. But every year, flu changes and comes back. Viruses adapt to survive. And quite probably, this one too will survive.

So that means change.

Few people like change. It's tough.

But it struck me today in my own "I'm reading too much online about the virus" research. That it's time for change.

Maybe just temporary change. But possibly a long term change. The type of change you  don't want to think about. But might be necessary.

And is definitely responsible. 

Remember. It's not just about me and you either.

It's about everyone.  

Our world does not really have the luxury to be selfish. We have to look after everyone. Because it's the right thing to do.

That's all for now. All except...

LIVE LONG AND PROSPER