It has been two weeks since I left the house. At this point in time 1 in 3 Americans are currently on lockdown, quarantined, or following a "shelter-in-place" protocol. Nine states have a statewide policy keeping people indoors. While this is completely necessary, it is really sinking in that this is how life is going to be for awhile. And we don't even fully know how long "awhile" is going to look.
In our state, being outdoors when it is deemed unnecessary is considered a second degree misdemeanor. This means that under our laws, it is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of as much as $750, or both. Other examples of violations in this category include: manufacturing or selling drug paraphernalia, obstructing official business, and abuse of a corpse are examples of second degree misdemeanors.
In addition to this, a quote from our local law enforcement went a little something like this:
“During the coronavirus outbreak and beginning Tuesday morning, Cincinnati police officers will no longer respond in person to the following reports: criminal damaging, dog bites, lost property, lost or stolen license plates, phone harassment, property damage or found property."
"Police will no longer respond to assault reports, unless a suspect is still present or the victim requires medical attention, breaking and entering reports unless a suspect is still present, menacing reports "unless suspect is expected or threatens to return or is part of the elements of domestic violence" or theft reports "where there is no possibility of immediate apprehension. Police are asking victims to report those crimes through the online or telephone reporting system.”
Wow. So, that's where we are at the moment. But, here's the thing-the measures are working. Here is how the spread in Ohio has looked over the past week:
I am going to be honest, friends...I am exhausted today. Mentally, emotionally, even kind of physically. This is a hard adjustment, and I think it is crucial to take time to check in with ourselves and really reflect on what we are feeling. That is one of the tougher aspects of self love.
I know that it can look bleak at times, my friends, but remember that these measures are for the benefit of the whole society. Let's all keep being the best we can be for ourselves and for the people we care about.
Prepare, don't panic.
-Allison
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