Socializing During COVID-19
- Mrs. Leverette
- Apr 28, 2020
- 2 min read
As I type this message, like millions of other citizens of the United States of America, I am spending days on end within the confines of my house due to the Stay at Home orders that were issued by my state's governor. It seems that most intelligent and compassionate people are complying as it truly seems to be the best way to stop the spread of the virus to those most vulnerable in our communities. One challenge related to manners is how to acknowledge neighbors, classmates, friends, and family members when we see them outside of our homes. Here are a few suggestions for navigating these types of scenarios:
If you are wearing a mask and they don't recognize you, do nothing at that moment. When you are back home, reach out to them electronically (text, phone, email, etc.) and let them know you saw them but were observing the Physical Distancing rules and didn't want to compromise anyone's safety.
If you are outside and more than 6 feet away, you may raise your voice a bit and wave your hand. Remain 6 or more feet away during your entire verbal exchange which should be very brief. To be safe, do NOT touch each other at all - not even elbows or feet. (This goes against a general rule of civility that states that your voice and gestures should be neither seen nor heard unless someone is within 3 feet of you when you are out in society. As soon as this pandemic ends, please resume this general rule.)
If you are in a digital class or conference room, keep your greetings short and general. Please follow the meeting host's instructions regarding muting, sharing video, and speaking up. You may be able to connect one-on-one via a Chat function or through completely separate technological avenues.
As we progress through this moment of social distancing for the good of our countrymen and countrywomen, please know that this too shall pass; and, we should take advantage of this opportunity to develop deeper connections with the people we love and hobbies/interests we enjoy. Take care and be well.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Leverette
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