Feb 9

Feb 9 Looking for normalcy during abnormal times By Joseph Griffo

At the beginning of the year, I had originally quipped that the year 2020 could provide us with 2020 vision. However, that all changed rapidly, and 2020 quickly turned into a fuzzy, challenging and disruptive time. When I’m asked to describe 2020 now, “abnormal” is the first word to come to mind. Merriam-Webster defines “abnormal” as “deviating from the normal or average” and “unusual in an unwelcome or problematic way.” I can’t think of a better description for 2020 than that.

Yes, these are unusual, unwelcome and unimaginable times, and there is no doubt that COVID-19 has caused significant challenges for individuals, families, small business owners, schools, local governments and many more. I see and hear about these struggles everyday throughout the 47th Senate District, and my office continues to help those seeking unemployment benefits, clarification on reopening guidance or answers to questions related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Our lives have dramatically and drastically changed. Activities that were once considered normal occurrences – going out to dinner, gathering with friends and family in person to celebrate a holiday or special occasion and even getting a haircut – have been upended by COVID-19. Mask wearing, social distancing and hand sanitizer have now become a necessary way of life. Sadly, we have experienced a heartbreaking, tragic loss of life as a result of the pandemic. Behind every number is a name and a life that must be acknowledged and should be remembered.

There has been some good that has arisen from this problematic time. I am encouraged and inspired by all the extraordinary health care professionals, first responders, essential workers and other New Yorkers who go to work every day despite a significant threat to their own lives and that of their families. Businesses, restaurants, schools, families and others have continued to show remarkable adaptability, innovation and toughness during this challenging period. I appreciate the courage and commitment of our local leaders who have helped to guide us through these difficult times.

However, the pandemic unfortunately also has led to more division. We have seen a rise in baseless conspiracy theories, the dangerous spread of misinformation and animosity and contempt for those who may not agree with us. The sniping, bickering and chest thumping that we have witnessed on social media and elsewhere doesn’t help or resolve our crisis.

COVID-19 is an ever changing, unpredictable and inconspicuous threat. While we have seen good in people, I’ve seen far too many of my fellow citizens who are unwilling to undertake personal sacrifice for the common good. We have before us the rare opportunity to come together as a nation, as we did following the Sept. 11 terrorists attacks, and for that matter as a global community. This is a chance to unite under a common cause and fight to eradicate an invisible, common enemy. We must not squander this objective.

I understand how easy it is to become depressed, disheartened and discouraged as we continue to make our way through this public health crisis. We have witnessed COVID fatigue, the COVID blues and what I call COVIDxiety, or the apprehension about what will or could happen next. We’re all looking for the light at the end of the tunnel - which may be getting brighter with the development of several vaccines and the availability of newer therapeutic treatments and the opportunity to return to normal. That time will come.

First, we have to make our way through this new abnormal. We can do that by slowing down, enjoying the simple things and rediscovering the bright spots in our lives that have always been there but may have dimmed during the craziness of the pandemic. They might be difficult to find, but signs of normalcy are out there.

Joseph Griffo is a New York State Senator and Deputy Minority Leader representing the 47th district

Special thanks to The Genesis Group for facilitating this article. The Genesis Group is a civic organization that unites Business and Community Leaders working to advance regional Economic, Social and Cultural interests, and to foster unity and cooperation in the Mohawk Valley region of Upstate New York.