The good, the bad and the ugly

Sometimes it takes a tragedy to bring out the best in people. 

The Good: Politicians have mostly ceased their partisan bickering to unite and serve the American people.  We have a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that has pulled all the stops by attacking this virus as an invading enemy as well as supporting the welfare and health of those affected. We have organizations, businesses, first responders and citizens stepping up to the plate to ensure those in need and the most vulnerable are fed, cared for, transported and comforted. This is happening with military precision.  

The Bad:  Sensationalism, tragedy and death sells. This is not the time. Beware of the mostly dishonest media. Don’t get news overload.  Young people are community transmitters and should be careful, yet they persist on breaking guidelines as I would have probably done decades ago. Common sense should take priority over self indulgence. 

The Ugly: Price gouging and hoarding. Charging astronomical prices during a crisis is both illegal and sinful. Hoarding denies basic supplies to those in desperate need and is both selfish and greedy. This virus relies on human contact and the sharing of respiratory droplets to spread. Do your part. Follow the CDC guidelines — if not for yourself then to spare the lives of the vulnerable. 

This will pass and perhaps make us a better nation. I spent 10 months in the West Pacific aboard an aircraft carrier staring upon hundreds upon unending hundreds of miles of open sea. My mind acknowledged that it would eventually end with better days ahead. Keep the faith, readers. This, too, will pass. We are a very tough and resilient nation. United we stand, divided we fall. Your choice. 

God bless you, readers, and your families. Stay safe and healthy. Till next time, farewell.

Millerton resident Larry Conklin is a Vietnam veteran and member of both the Millerton American Legion Post 178 and the VFW Couch Pipa Post in North Canaan, Conn.