Most of us, in today’s new world of COVID-19, no matter where we live, are using social-distancing techniques. I pray all of you are well. I also hope you are able to get out a bit for a run, hike, or bike—while also being careful to avoid exposure to someone who might be a COVID-19 carrier. Since most don’t know they might carry the virus, we need to exercise caution at all levels.
So here’s my post for today in the new world of social distancing. I know some readers are working at their ‘essential’ businesses, others are working from home, and many more may have lost their jobs. My heart goes out to everyone.
First, Let’s Support Others
To keep this focused on ‘others,’ remember to help your neighbors. That may mean sharing a few rolls of toilet paper, water, and maybe food supplies if you have some to share. Check-in on people, especially those in the high-risk range. Call them. Email them.
It also means supporting those who run the businesses that support our sports. Your local running store, bike shop, backpacking store, and more. It also means supporting the businesses that make the products we use. Things like socks, insoles, sports apparel, sport-specific gear (like lights, packs, bottles, etc.), specialty foods and gels and energy drinks and supplements, reading material, and more. Many of these businesses are falling on hard times without their regular in-store customers. Some of my local shops are offering to take orders and deliver them to your car when you stop by or mail them. No contact. Simply call or order online and pick them up or have them delivered. Don’t know how you can help? Call them and tell them what you’re thinking. Let them help you. Although any size business may be hurting, it’s often the small mom and pop operations that have the most to lose. Many of these are our friends and have supported our events and races over the years. Now they need our help.
Second, Learn Something New
This period of social distancing and isolation can be useful. You don’t have to be bored. Many parks are closed, races are being canceled, and training is challenging. My challenge to you is to use this time to learn a better way to train, to cross-train, to learn a new skill or skills, to learn more about your sport. Investigate new events you’ve heard of and might be interested in.
I’d be short sighting you if I didn’t suggest learning more about managing your feet. If you don’t have a copy of the 6thedition of Fixing Your Feet, I’ll tell you it’s the most comprehensive edition ever. If you are prone to blisters, learn everything you can about them. If it’s always your toenails giving you problems, learn more about how to manage them. Learn about prevention and treatments. Learn about new products that can help you with any problems you have. And once you are up to speed on your issues, learn about other foot problems—that someday might surface and bit you.
And Finally
In all this crazy, mixed-up world, we all have family and friends whom we care for, and they care for us. I urge you to stay connected. Be purposeful in reaching out. We are in uncertain times with many becoming infected with the virus. Be safe. You are all important to me. We need each other. We are a family.
That’s my soapbox for today.
