In a pandemic-ridden world, who can you trust?

Since the COVID-19-related global shutdown started a few weeks ago, a lot of perplexing messages have been making the rounds, as I believe we have all noticed. Every one of us likes to have some control in our lives and “the unknown” can therefore become an enemy to the people. Having said that, I must be honest and say that I don’t believe anyone at this time has any really insightful responses to share with us.

The precise date when everything will reopen is unknown. Things are made more challenging by the fact that there are various pockets of outbreaks around the world, each with varying degrees of severity. Additionally, it appears that different regional governing bodies and jurisdictions have different views on what we are permitted to do and what we are not. Many things are just illogical. For instance, one province with high statistics reopened schools while another with low statistics did not plan to reopen schools for a few weeks.

The wearing of masks as a whole has generated debate. We once heard that if fitted or handled improperly, they might even spread infections. Some “experts” warn that they might give a false sense of safety. Some claim that we must wear them. Where, when, and what kind of questions come to mind?

Trying to balance our finances and health can also be difficult. Those in what is termed “essential services” are required to work despite risk. Those in “non-essential? services who have been self-isolating may have lost or reduced their income significantly.

Governments have been implementing various stimulus plans to put cash in people’s hands and stop the stock market from collapsing, but recovering from this will set our nation back for a very long time.

So, what can we do in a world where there are conflicting signals and uncertainty? How can you live a peaceful life instead of a fearful one? Who can you trust?

1. Trust yourself. Develop your research skills, then rely on your own knowledge to guide your decisions. You can maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise caution while leading an active lifestyle. Even if you are unable to use a gym, you can still exercise by taking a walk in the lovely outdoors. You can stay in touch with friends and family via phone or computer rather than in person. You can make better use of your time by developing your living situation, picking up a new skill, or making the most of the downtime you’ve always wanted.

2. You should put your trust in trustworthy people. I am lucky to have a doctor who is knowledgeable about science, my health, and me. Consider the people in your life who you have come to trust over time. Do you know anyone who is savvy with money? Can you trust the people who run the grocery store where you shop? Can you trust any of your friends or family members with certain matters?

3. Trust God (or the universe, or whatever you want to call something or someone larger than yourself). Everyday, the sun rises. Seasons come and go on a regular schedule. People have been born, lived, and passed away for centuries. This pandemic is only a small portion of a world history that has seen both progress and unrest. And the cycle will keep going.