Physical Separation, Not Isolation

Let's change the narrative. While I much admire my Australian brethren's ability to simplify and shorten anything, e.g. "social isolation" to "iso's", it has become clear that (at least for anyone with internet access and who may read this) we are anything but isolated. COVID-19 in many ways is forcing us to feel more connected to humanity.

Strangers out for a walk, while maintaining appropriate distance and occasional suspicious glances ("do they have it????"), smile and say hi. Neighbors who have never been seen before are staying local and waving.

Technology has been the savior of the moment. Families celebrating Easter or Passover have done so over Zoom or FaceTime, despite much mirth and fumbling. Students are learning online, and in fact there arguably has never been a time of more valuable, free, accessible information than in history.

The world is becoming a world of broadcasters - on Twitch, Zoom, Linkedin Live, Instagram Live, Facebook.....and partying with emergent "just pop in" apps like House Party. Events have gone virtual, quickly, often with purposeful intent and supportive fundraising behind them. Creativity is everywhere, as people reinvent the way they communicate, run companies, connect and get stuff done.

Humans are tribal in instinct, and most of us are finding ways to connect with our families and tribe of friends, and having deep, real and often hilarious conversations.

So let's change the narrative. From social isolation to physical distancing. I issue a challenge to the Antipodeans out there to creatively rename - "distos"?