More than a month ago, we could not have predicted we would be where we are today. Most of us staying home, foregoing our plans and traditions like birthday parties and weekly dinners, in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. It’s been tough. But in the face of fear and uncertainty, I am encouraged by seeing Hoosier families and communities coming together to support each other.
Difficult times often highlight who and what is most important. Growing up, my father often abused my mother, eventually kidnapping her at gun point. Thankfully, she was able to escape and return home, and he was sent to prison. But during that time, my siblings and I were sent to a group home. I was around 4 years old, and I still recall how scared and overwhelmed I was. But what I remember most was my older brother, Dan, and how safe he made me feel. I knew no matter what happened, as long as I was with my brother and sister, I would be OK. We are all currently experiencing a difficult situation. It is important – now more than ever – to lean on each other and weather this storm together.
Now as my wife, Volly, and I take walks and enjoy the spring weather, we see so many families spending time outside together. In this day and age, you are hard-pressed to see anyone without a cell phone in hand, but I’ve seen that less and less recently. While technology connects us when we are physically apart, it often created barriers for friends and families in the past. Even though these times are difficult, many are creating happy memories that will last a lifetime.
Each day, the governor provides an update to Hoosiers on our fight against the coronavirus. There is a lot of information to digest, and what I find most inspiring are the stories of neighbors helping neighbors, sewing groups donating hundreds of homemade face masks, students shopping and delivering groceries to the elderly, and private companies stepping up to support our state. While there is a lot of negative we can focus on, it is clear there is far more good in the world that deserves our attention.
While many are blessed to be able to spend time with their family and work from home, others lost their jobs and are social distancing alone. For those in need, there is help available. Visit IN.gov/coronavirus for the latest information on Indiana’s efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, and click “Public Resources,” for a list of resources and guides during this public health emergency. I remain available to answer questions and help navigate state issues. Please contact me at h58@iga.in.gov, and I will respond as quickly as possible. I also provide regular updates through an e-newsletter, which can be subscribed to at IN.gov/h58.
I continue praying for our community, state and nation. We will get through this together.
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