COVID-19 has been referred to as the “invisible enemy”. It is an adversary to ourselves and mankind. It can attack without notice – unseen. In addition, anyone you come in contact with can inadvertently pass the virus to you – thus becoming an unintended ally of the invisible enemy. We have been told to hide from this enemy. Social distancing measures and masks are designed to protect you.

As the CDC suggests, the main way we can avoid this “invisible enemy” is by shielding ourselves from each other:

• Everyone 2 and older should wear masks in public.
• Masks should be worn in addition to staying at least 6 feet apart, especially around people who don’t live with you.
• Outside your home: Put 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household.
• Avoid crowds – Being in crowds like in restaurants, bars, fitness centers, or movie theaters put you at higher risk for COVID-19.

Despite these measures to shield us from the SARS-CoV-2 virus…it can still easily slip by as many people have seen. Unfortunately, millions have become infected and died worldwide.

However, as we have learned to view each other as potential threats, are we the victims of a much more harmful disease? Are we in danger of losing the fabric of our society in an effort to protect ourselves? Do we disregard the value of the simple connections with others – our families, our friends, our neighbors? The casual smiles and laughter as we meet, or just pass by… Is the real “invisible enemy” the ideology which makes us fear each other instead of fighting a virus?