Upset and venting

So my GF is considered "essential" and therefore her as well as her employees have to report to work. Also, I have lupus and kidney damage and therefore I fall in the "immunocompromised/high risk" category.

Her assistant is beyond socially irresponsible and a whole lot of other words that will get bleeped out of here.

So a couple of weeks ago she went out with friends...okay, we weren't under a 'shelter in place' order at that time. We WERE restricted and not allowed to have gathering of 10+ people and advised to practice social distancing.
After learning of this, GF had a meeting with the staff and let everyone know what the guidelines were and that while she couldn't control what anyone did outside of the office she encouraged them to be responsible and honest about things so everyone else could be cautious. All of the correct HR she could say. She also let them know that a couple member of the staff had family members who are immunocompromised and to please try and be considerate of that as well as no one wants to take anything home to loved one.

Then what does her assistant do this weekend??? Gathers up her friends and goes out looking for places that are open and shopping. When my girlfriend questioned her choice about this her response was, "When it's my time to go its my time. Until then I'm living my best life."
Okay, what about the other people's lives you could be risking?! I'm currently living my best life as well, I have no desire to DIE because you want to act out some suppressed high school stuff.

Well, yesterday our governor issued a 'shelter in place' order for the state. My GF had to give her staff letters stating they were essential so they could show that to the police should they get questioned, etc. Her assistant then says she is glad to have that. Now she can pick up her friends and if they get stopped she can say they are having a work meeting and are carpooling!

This is not a young (not that age has anything to do with responsibility or maturity) woman. She is around my age so she's in her early 40s.
I am just shocked at her social irresponsibility and inconsiderate behavior.
Not only am I immunocompromised, but another staff member has small kids and another one's wife has severe asthma.

What the actual heck is wrong with people?

 

Depending on who you know, non-compliant staff can suddenly find themselves on the "non-essential" list.

 

Well I know that before all of this stuff hit, she was working herself toward the "non-essential" list anyway. I hate to wish that for anyone, but I am hoping this helps expedite that for her.

 

What is her job title?

 

So, I'm going to sympathize with you, I work at a fish store, we're a pet store too so were considered essential HOWEVER, with the layout and the size of our store, and the recent behavior observed by customers not taking the threat seriously, our business decided to temporarily close instead. - lots of upset people because they can't come shop. Any customer that expresses negative feelings towards us being closed when we are open without the 'I understand why' part, I just might refuse service to them - which I'm not allowed to do but I'll make up my own rules since some people think they can do that at THIS time. Think I'm jokin, there are A LOT of people right now who are trying to do everything they can to break the rules and its disgusting.

Honestly, if she is not compliant with the executive order...its an order from the state. If your GF is her boss, I think your GF should give her the option of being a responsible adult or being an unemployed one.

Like, if she has this kind of attitude when the state changes rules and tells her not to do something shes always been able to do, what's going to happen when something similar changes within the company? What attitude is she gonna throw then? that's just immature and I'm really sorry you have to deal with this type of a person while you're at risk. Its absolutely disgusting that we have humans right how who genuinely believe 'this virus won't kill me, I'll do what I want'. When the country opens back up I really hope the system spites these people somehow....I believe in karma.

 

GF is corporate manager of property. She is considered essential because some of the properties the company owns are apartments/housing.

Crazy Chic is her assistant.

So, I'm going to sympathize with you, I work at a fish store, we're a pet store too so were considered essential HOWEVER, with the layout and the size of our store, and the recent behavior observed by customers not taking the threat seriously, our business decided to temporarily close instead. - lots of upset people because they can't come shop. Any customer that expresses negative feelings towards us being closed when we are open without the 'I understand why' part, I just might refuse service to them - which I'm not allowed to do but I'll make up my own rules since some people think they can do that at THIS time. Think I'm jokin, there are A LOT of people right now who are trying to do everything they can to break the rules and its disgusting.

Honestly, if she is not compliant with the executive order...its a god **** order from the state. If your GF is her boss, I think your GF should give her the option of being a responsible adult or being an unemployed one.

Like, if she has this kind of attitude when the state changes rules and tells her not to do something shes always been able to do, what's going to happen when something similar changes within the company? What attitude is she gonna throw then? that's just immature and I'm really sorry you have to deal with this type of a person while you're at risk. Its absolutely disgusting that we have humans right how who genuinely believe 'this virus won't kill me, I'll do what I want'. When the country opens back up I really hope the system spites these people somehow....I believe in karma.

Well, it just so happens that a new company bought the old company out so there are a LOT of changes she isn't compliant with. Which is why she is working her way to the "non-essential" list even before all of this happened. Unfortunately, because of the new company and their rules and regulations, my GF is unable to fire her without going through the proper channels. So for the past few weeks things have been documented, etc and I'm hoping she on her way out anyway.

 

Are her hands completely tied? Has she addressed this concern with HR or her supervisor?

 

Are her hands completely tied? Has she addressed this concern with HR or her supervisor?

Unfortunately, yes. She has had discussions with supervisors who have advised her to document. A verbal warning has been issued as well.
I think they are just not wanting to fire her in the middle of this chaos. GF NEEDS an assistant and there is no one to replace this one even temporarily so they would need to hire a new one. I feel like they are not wanting to do that at this time.

***Also I want to add that their reasons for not letting her go are only speculations on my part. I honestly have no idea why she hasn't been let go yet.

 

That just flat out sucks.

I'm a RN, and I suggest that you and your GF be VERY diligent with your precautionary measures. She needs to minimize both direct and indirect contact with this person (and frankly, given your condition, everyone else) You both need to routinely wash your hands, disinfect surfaces in your home and workplace, such as doorknobs, faucet handles and cell phones.

 

We are doing all of that. We have been extra cautious and have self-quarantined as much as possible since all of this started.
I haven't been out of the house in weeks other than to take Louie (pug) potty.
We even go as far as having GF put her clothes in the washer and get in the shower immediately when she gets home.

I honestly do not want this girl (or anyone else) to lose their job, especially at a time like this. I just want some social responsibility and consideration for others. Just some understanding that this is a virus and it spreads, therefore affecting more than just YOU.

 

I'm sorry this is happening to you and I wish the best for your and your girlfriend's health.

My workplace, a veterinary hospital, is considered essential. My coworker was talking about her friend the other day who invited her to a dinner party. The friend saw nothing wrong with this, and defended herself when confronted about the stay-at-home order and no-social-gatherings order - "everyone's at home and bored, we might as well just get together!" My coworker, who just happens to be the most uptight, "this is the end of the world" type of thinker, absolutely went OFF on her friend, almost to the point that she is no longer a "friend." Her "friend" ended the conversation with "I guess I'm just not medically minded like you." You don't need to be medically minded to understand what's going on right now!

 

Sorry to hear. A lot of people just aren't capable of considering anything outside of their personal world. If this were the zombie apocalypse she would be 100% be the person who hides a zombie bite from everyone.

 

Exactly.
Her "friend" is right though. Almost everyone IS at home and bored. Myself included. I am going stir crazy and nuts. I'd give anything to go to the craft store...the pet store...the grocery store...anywhere!
HOWEVER...Just because you are bored does not give you an excuse to be irresponsible and inconsiderate of others.
I'm not even saying everyone has to be "this is the end of the world" types. Just be responsible and considerate and understand that you are not the only one affected if you happen to get sick. Obviously it spreads easily.

 

We hear you and understand just how hard and frustrating it can be when someone who acts so irresponsible fails to comprehend how their behavior could impact so many others. There has been enough coverage of just how bad this virus is and how it can be so deadly that they have no reason for ignoring the call to STAY HOME!!

It sounds like this person is very self centered and has no regard for anyone but themselves. It is very shameful that anyone would be so bold to tell people how they plan to get around the new rules intended to keep all safe.

Your state has some very strict guidelines concerning what establishments are allowed to be open. So this person will have a hard time going out with friends to have social gatherings. That will not stop them from gathering in private residence, so the danger is still there.

You and your GF just need to make sure to establish safe practices. When your GF comes home, 1st thing to do is to change clothes and wash hands to get anything that may have some in contact with her while outside your home is kept away from you. Only then should you two be close to each other. Also, any work material brought home should be kept in an area away from you and you stay away from it. This is a time where being over cautious in this area is not over reacting due to the behavior of someone she works with.

Hopefully the powers to be where she works make a decision to remove this person from being around the work force soon, thereby reducing the risk they posse to everyone.

Wish you all the best. Stay safe and lets hope this Pandemic ends soon.

 

I don't want to sound callous, but I don't think anyone is purposefully "doing everything they can to break the rules." I think that's fear and paranoia talking. I'm seeing a lot of rage. Keep a level head everyone. When things go back to normal, let's not be the ones who regret what we've said and done.

Stay safe everyone.

 

Things won't go back to normal though unless everyone does what they need to do. That's not going to be the case because of people like her. I know a lot of people doing the same thing. Makes me angry because I am. I would like to go to the store to get bananas, bread milk etc. but I'm not because I dont NEED to. I'm not going to die if I dont get these items. I will go to the store when I need things to make dinner with or bathroom items. Our neighbors are driving all over the place. Where are they going? Idk but they are old so I dont get it.

 

I completely understand how you feel and I just, I feel so bad for you! I have four family members who are compromised and I have elected not to go see them for the next four weeks. It is really really hard because I'm very close with my parents and my sisters, but my father has diabetes, my mother has asthma, my younger sister has asthma, and my littlest sister has down syndrome and no immune system from going through chemo treatment for cancer for 3 years. I got so mad at some people that we knew who were making jokes about everyone freaking out for no reason and how we're all young and that it's not a big deal. these were people we are quite close with and it was everything I could do not to yell at them. I hid for a while to calm myself down, but later on I got a text from a couple of them inviting me to do a get-together with a couple families and share a meal even though our state of Idaho as well as Washington are both on shelter-in-place ordinances. I sent them a very respectful text explaining why I thought it wasn't okay, and even referred to sources I knew they respected to try and explain why it was so important to my husband and I to follow these rules. The response was thanks for letting them know and then a group email was sent out to our gathering group not to be judgmental towards other people who choose not to do what you do...
What??
On the one hand, fine, you are free to make your own choices, but don't call me judgmental when you're making fun of other people for following rules and being respectful and caring about other people other than yourself and say I'm judgemental because I respectfully told you why I believed this was a bad idea. People can be strange, people who are even really really nice can be very odd when it comes to things like this, it's so hard to understand what people are thinking sometimes. Yes it is important to give grace to them that for some reason they cannot comprehend things beyond themselves or maybe they truly believe this is a government conspiracy, but on the other hand I have absolutely zero tolerance for selfish behavior and I have no problem saying that, even if I'm going to be called judgmental. Stand firm in what you believe, obey the law and stay home, stay safe!

 

Things won't go back to normal though unless everyone does what they need to do. that's not going to be the case because of people like her. I know a lot of people doing the same thing. Makes me angry because I am. I would like to go to the store to get bananas, bread milk etc. but I'm not because I dont NEED to. I'm not going to die if I dont get these items. I will go to the store when I need things to make dinner with or bathroom items. Our neighbors are driving all over the place. Where are they going? Idk but they are old so I dont get it.

I wasn't talking about her and the OP's problems. I know that wasn't very clear. I'm just sensing a lot of anger and even hate from some responses. I think a lot of it is unfounded. Not a popular opinion, but what's said is said.

 

I wasn't talking about her and the OP's problems. I know that wasn't very clear. I'm just sensing a lot of anger and even hate from some responses. I think a lot of it is unfounded. Not a popular opinion, but what's said is said.

I could see that, it's one thing to vent to feel better but it's another thing to be hateful towards people who are making bad choices. Like I said in my post, giving grace to people who are making bad choices is very important even though it really really irritates us when they're being bad and we can see the stupidity in it. there are some people who truly believe this is all a hoax and that since they don't know anyone who has this virus it's all being faked. I kid you not. On the one hand, I don't understand how anyone could think that, but on the other, I believe bettas need 5 gallon tanks or more and people call me crazy. it's all a matter of perspective and we need to give grace even when people are being terrible, otherwise we are no better than they are. We are all calling each other names and not working to solve things. Are heart attitudes need to be good or none of us are going to get through this. So thanks for the reminder! I appreciate it.

 

I do not have any hate, but I will admit to being angry. Maybe I'm not even as angry as I am just frustrated. I have a lot of feelings I am dealing with regarding this whole darn thing. The virus itself scares me. Then I don't understand someone having just a blatant disregard for rules and other people. It just a very stressful time for everyone.

 

I do not have any hate, but I will admit to being angry. Maybe I'm not even as angry as I am just frustrated. I have a lot of feelings I am dealing with regarding this whole darn thing. The virus itself scares me. Then I don't understand someone having just a blatant disregard for rules and other people. It just a very stressful time for everyone.

I didn't think your post was hateful! Just wanted you to know that. Everyone is scared and I totally get being angry with people who are being selfish. and frustration is very evident in your post, and that's okay. Your post is literally called venting. I hope that you are able to get through this time without getting sick, and I will be sending your way!

 

agree, minus the prayers. i'm not that kind of person.

 

I completely understand your rage and frustration. Too many people think these isolation recommendations and orders don't apply to them. They have no regard for the health and well being of anyone else because they aren't personally in the compromised groups. They simply don't care about anyone but themselves.

One of my biggest gripes is the grocery shopping situation. They're saying buy enough to last one or two weeks. That's not possible when the shelves are constantly empty. They're telling people to shop for relatives, friends and neighbors that are in the compromised groups, but again, that requires multiple weekly trips in order to shop for your own family, much less for a second family. How's that helping anyone, when you're having to go out every other day just to necessary food items?

Every mayor has a different plan. Every governor has a different plan. Mayor says this, governor says that, the health officials are saying the other. Even the people that want to stay safe are getting conflicting advice from everyone they should be able to trust. It really is a no-win situation!

 

agree, minus the payers. i'm not that kind of person.

Sorry I hope I didn't offend you

 

oh that's okay. I just noticed the "payers" part

 

We are doing all of that. We have been extra cautious and have self-quarantined as much as possible since all of this started.
I haven't been out of the house in weeks other than to take Louie (pug) potty.
We even go as far as having GF put her clothes in the washer and get in the shower immediately when she gets home.

I honestly do not want this girl (or anyone else) to lose their job, especially at a time like this. I just want some social responsibility and consideration for others. Just some understanding that this is a virus and it spreads, therefore affecting more than just YOU.

While there's no call to be hateful (which I don't think you're doing,) there's also absolutely no reason to go to any lengths to be polite to people who are blatantly endangering their coworkers lives, and the lives of their families, by being selfishly irresponsible.

If I were your gf, I would force her assistant to put on gloves and a mask as soon as she enters the building, and demand that she change them immediately whenever seen touching her face, hair, or clothing. I would also wear gloves in the office. Whenever your gf sees her assistant attempt to breach the 6' rule, I would speak sharply to her, and remind her to keep back. I would encourage other employees to keep away from her, and consider anything she touches to be possibly contaminated.

If questioned about these restrictions seeming only to apply to the assistant, I would point out the documentation, and say that the restrictions are a direct result of her flouting her disdain for the health and wellbeing of others. I would NOT make her feel welcome in the workplace whatsoever, and would make sure she knew why she was being ostracized. Perhaps it would encourage her to change her behavior, and perhaps it would encourage her to seek employment elsewhere.

Either way, everybody who deserves to win, wins.

It's not about being medically minded. It's a matter of priorities. Either you place the lives of others at a higher priority than your own frivolous whims, or you selfishly place your own trivial wants above the lives of others. In my eyes, only one of those sets of priorities is worthy of being treated with basic human respect.

 

I would NOT make her feel welcome in the workplace whatsoever, and would make sure she knew why she was being ostracized. Perhaps it would encourage her to change her behavior, and perhaps it would encourage her to seek employment elsewhere.

I think this would create many more problems and much more tension than it solves. People don't learn to change their ways by other people making them feel unwelcome; it often makes them feel the opposite, that they have a right to defend themselves against these crazy people who are personally attacking her.

Being direct is much more accomplishing. "If you fail to adhere to guidelines, x warning will be implemented, and if further non-compliant behavior is observed, y and z will happen." These are adults, you need to treat them like they are actually intelligent and responsible. Unfortunately it sounds like OP's girlfriend does not have control over this situation anyway.

 

I think that is a big part of the issue. The company GF works for was bought out by another company. GF chose to retain her position (new company offered more money and better benefits) and stay with new company as did her assistant. GF does not have the same control/pull/clout she had with previous company and I think assistant is aware of that.

Anyway, I don't think any of that really matters. I don't think that changes who she is as a person. I feel that she is someone who is very self-absorbed and lacks empathy/compassion towards others.

Then, maybe, she too is having a tough time dealing with the situation and her way of dealing is to pretend it isn't a threat. I don't know.

I just know that I, personally, am very afraid of contracting this virus and my fear has caused even my behavior to change.

 

It's a little easy to say "don't be hateful", when we're dealing with situations where some people's lives are at genuine risk and despite the onslaught of information readily available to show how serious the situation is, some are still choosing to ignore it because their own lives are not so much at risk. Thereby endangering others. There's nothing else to call that but callous selfishness. Don't tell me these people don't understand what they are doing. They *choose* not to understand by willfully ignoring information that scrolls by on all screens all day. A month ago I would have given you that point, sure, but by now it's a choice not to believe in the seriousness of this pandemic.

That said the tide is turning, I do feel at least here nearly everyone is taking it seriously now. I scoffed earlier this week at a man taking his young daughter to a food outlet - which can only be open for takeaway - and literally standing less than 2 feet from me and blocking the door in the process, meaning I had brush against them to exit the building. He was pretty startled, mumbled some apologies and moved away, made sure to keep his distance from other customers after that too. I could have said it more politely but I was just annoyed that it was still necessary to speak it out loud at this point, when public life has come to a halt, that people should take the government's regulations seriously. Other than that everyone is doing their best to keep the proper distance, navigating supermarket aisles like a maze to try and not cross people in the narrow paths.

 

We're all being selfish. Doesn't matter what side of the fence you're on.

 

We're all being selfish. Doesn't matter what side of the fence you're on.

Everyone is always selfish. Doesn't mean degrees don't exist and doesn't mean we can't vent about it from time to time.

 

It's a little easy to say "don't be hateful", when we're dealing with situations where some people's lives are at genuine risk and despite the onslaught of information readily available to show how serious the situation is, some are still choosing to ignore it because their own lives are not so much at risk. Thereby endangering others. There's nothing else to call that but callous selfishness. Don't tell me these people don't understand what they are doing. They *choose* not to understand by willfully ignoring information that scrolls by on all screens all day. A month ago I would have given you that point, sure, but by now it's a choice not to believe in the seriousness of this pandemic.

That said the tide is turning, I do feel at least here nearly everyone is taking it seriously now. I scoffed earlier this week at a man taking his young daughter to a food outlet - which can only be open for takeaway - and literally standing less than 2 feet from me and blocking the door in the process, meaning I had brush against them to exit the building. He was pretty startled, mumbled some apologies and moved away, made sure to keep his distance from other customers after that too. I could have said it more politely but I was just annoyed that it was still necessary to speak it out loud at this point, when public life has come to a halt, that people should take the government's regulations seriously. Other than that everyone is doing their best to keep the proper distance, navigating supermarket aisles like a maze to try and not cross people in the narrow paths.

This is what I'm talking about though. Couldn't you have avoided contact and simply said excuse me? Unfortunately, people are going to be walking around in a public place. Sometimes distance can be unavoidable and other times, we aren't always aware. I try to be aware and self conscious of my surroundings. Yet sometimes people are antsy and still lose it, even if your more than 8ft away. Everyone needs to chill a moment and behave rationally. Yesterday, as I was walking out, I stopped to let an older lady through, keeping my distance but she held the door for me. Is she being selfish and purposefully above the law? I don't think so. It's just common courtesy. It's not so easy for some people to simply forget.

 

We're all being selfish. Doesn't matter what side of the fence you're on.

Everyone is always selfish. Doesn't mean degrees don't exist and doesn't mean we can't vent about it from time to time.

There's nothing wrong with being selfish when it comes to looking out for your best interest.

"Keep your distance, I don't want to get sick" is quite all right, it does no harm to others, and is self preservation.

"I'll do what I want and if you get sick, too bad" is quite a different story.

Sorry, but as far as I'm concerned, the latter has no place in civilized society during the best of times, and spurning and shaming that attitude especially during these times is perfectly acceptable.

 

This is what I'm talking about though. Couldn't you have avoided contact and simply said excuse me? Unfortunately, people are going to be walking around in a public place. Sometimes distance can be unavoidable and other times, we aren't always aware.

I'm not sure what you think I said, but that's what I meant with 'scoffed'. It's the tone that was obviously annoyed that got the message across.

And I disagree with you. With some people, if you don't call them out on something not being acceptable they won't change their behaviour. Just walking around in a public place, naturally. And accidentally running into someone can happen too.
You know what isn't okay in these times? You entering a narrow space, and standing with your back against the door not two feet from the counter immediately behind it. Instead of walking on past the counter into the entirely empty store where there are seats. And then when the person at the counter turns to leave, you don't make any motion of moving aside so they can maybe exit the place. It's not like I didn't wait for the guy to react. But he shouldn't have been standing there in the first place - either come in or stay outside (as all the other customers where doing so there was only 1 person at a time in the narrow space), there's no need to stand that near me and block the door, it's stupid.

At least if you startle somebody they'll be more careful next time. Even if they were unaware they were doing it. It's not like I'm provoking a fight, just bringing something to someone's attention. Which likely wouldn't have happened if I'd just meekly said "excuse me" and left.

I agree with you that it isn't necessary to start conflicts but at this point in time I think it's also irresponsible to not call people's attention to things they are doing to contribute to the spread. Maybe they are indeed doing it without being aware, but then we should point that out.

 

There's nothing wrong with being selfish when it comes to looking out for your best interest.

"Keep your distance, I don't want to get sick" is quite all right, it does no harm to others, and is self preservation.

"I'll do what I want and if you get sick, too bad" is quite a different story.

Sorry, but as far as I'm concerned, the latter has no place in civilized society during the best of times, and spurning and shaming that attitude especially during these times is perfectly acceptable.

Well, I guess we just have very different ideas of what's acceptable. Very early on, I read an article of people walking by and letting a man die because he might have coronavirus (he didn't). This is what makes me mad, people forgetting their humanity.

 

Well, yesterday our governor issued a 'shelter in place' order for the state.

omg, I had no idea Kemp finally did this! I got an 'essential letter' from my boss, but we are working remote anyway.

I'm sorry GF assistant is a tool. Document everything and imo build a case to replace her. GA is an at will state so it shouldn't be terribly hard. She's dI'm witted abut this (social distancing), she has that trait elsewhere.

 

Well, I guess we just have very different ideas of what's acceptable. Very early on, I read an article of people walking by and letting a man die because he might have coronavirus (he didn't). This is what makes me mad, people forgetting their humanity.

I only meant that you and PascalKrypt were on the same thought line, and while I agree with both of your statements, there are acceptable degrees of selfishness, some are normal and acceptable while other aren't, and in these times, people need to be made aware when their behavior is out of order and can cause harm to others.

 

Early on there was a lot of news coverage showing people who were doing all they could to purposely break the rules. Virus parties, beach parties, etc. We can only hope they now understand how their actions then and now endanger all those they come into contact with and those who come into contact with them.

There are good legitimate reasons for people to go out and about and that is perfectly okay. We all need to be aware of each other and to be as accommodating in as safe a way as we can. We should be civil and courteous when moving around. It's okay to be scared but not to over react when dealing with each other. Too many different scenarios to include in this discussion but we all need to be able to adjust in our ever changing environment.

That said, this individual the Op is talking about, is clearly and purposely breaking rules and the law. The Ops statement on how this individuals talk and actions for "living their best life" by going out shopping/socializing after the discussion by her supervisor against such activity and with using the "essential" letter to allow her and friends to go out and about is clear evidence of just that.

Being a retired senior military person, the lives and safety of my people was a top priority. Going into harms way was part of our job and no matter how much we prepare, things happen that cost lives. Being a leader you have to be level headed or more people get hurt and die. This individuals actions are not even close to that type of scenario and no amount of explanation will justify what they are doing. Do they even understand their way of thinking and ask "To go party or shop" is it really worth the risk?

Mad - yes I am. Don't tolerate fools and this is a foolish person with foolish behavior. In this particular type of incident people need to stand up and speak out against people who endanger the lives of all those around them.

This way of thinking and behavior is not a small little thing. People lives are endangered by people like this. Ignorance is not going to cut it and we all have a responsibility to stand up, speak out, and take action to curtail it.

I agree with everyone that we need to be level headed, after all we are a civilized community. Practice tolerance, be courteous, remember our manners in these tough times. However, with people like this person the Op is describing we don't need to be a church mouse either.

 

It's a little easy to say "don't be hateful", when we're dealing with situations where some people's lives are at genuine risk and despite the onslaught of information readily available to show how serious the situation is, some are still choosing to ignore it because their own lives are not so much at risk. Thereby endangering others. There's nothing else to call that but callous selfishness. Don't tell me these people don't understand what they are doing. They *choose* not to understand by willfully ignoring information that scrolls by on all screens all day. A month ago I would have given you that point, sure, but by now it's a choice not to believe in the seriousness of this pandemic.

That said the tide is turning, I do feel at least here nearly everyone is taking it seriously now. I scoffed earlier this week at a man taking his young daughter to a food outlet - which can only be open for takeaway - and literally standing less than 2 feet from me and blocking the door in the process, meaning I had brush against them to exit the building. He was pretty startled, mumbled some apologies and moved away, made sure to keep his distance from other customers after that too. I could have said it more politely but I was just annoyed that it was still necessary to speak it out loud at this point, when public life has come to a halt, that people should take the government's regulations seriously. Other than that everyone is doing their best to keep the proper distance, navigating supermarket aisles like a maze to try and not cross people in the narrow paths.

Well said. It's understandable how people behaved a month ago, but as you said, given the amount of information now out there and seeing the ever increasing toll this virus is causing, everyone needs to do their part in keeping themselves and those around them safe.

I think your right in that most folks are now taking this more seriously. It's only a few bad apples in the mix that are making it hard on everyone. With the ability of this virus to spread so easily, it only takes one person to restart the infecting of a population again. This is the point I think that is being lost on some people.

Unfortunately most will not grasp this until we go through a second wave of fighting this disease. Hopefully by then our medical people have better tools for combating it and for treating people. Most of all I hope something like this never comes about.

 

But the rules are being broken intentionally. Teens partying with no regard to social distancing, drinking and drugs and losing their inhibitions and common sense. They know right from wrong. Why do they do it..... because at that age we all think we are immortal, even I did.
This is going to cause a trickle effect of the virus being passed on to family's and elders. While the young and healthy might not show symptoms right away, and not get as sick because their immunes are better functioning, many innocent people are going to pay the price, especially the dedicated workers on the front lines, our police, firefighters, nurses and doctors.. when they are down, who's going to look after you? Not one of us has the right to put others in jeopardy. I speak as a nurse, fear mongering?... absolutely not, it's deadly. Be safe, social distance, wash your hands often and don't touch your face. Be safe!