Deserted roadways are the 'new normal.'
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Since my last column seven days ago, life in the U.S. has radically changed. The Wuhan/Chinese/Corona/Corvid 19 virus has affected every aspect of our lives. Like it or not, this is “the end of the world as we know it.” Make no mistake, we’ll recover, but the future won’t look anything like what we remember as “normal.” Some shifts, socially/economically will be difficult, at best. Some of the differences, especially at an individual and family are refreshing and welcome.
This is the first paragraph of my Wire column from 17 December, 2019:
“The holiday season is upon us, reminding us that 2019 is almost done. Which leaves us wondering, “What comes next?” Standby, it’s the “Roaring 20’s.” Up to now this phrase referred to the 1920’s - in France, the 20’s were called the "annees folles,” or crazy years. The 20’s were a time of great social, cultural and economic change across the world, especially in the United States. However, I think this next decade – the 2020’s – may give last century’s 20’s a run for the title of “crazy.””
We just entered the fourth month of the new “Roaring 20’s” and things are already north of “crazy.” “Stay-at-home” orders have become the norm. A significant chunk of our economy has been shut down, so far with no end in sight. A concerning number of people are calling for more draconian measures – even military involvement - until this “crisis” has run its course. “Normal” has ground to a screeching halt.
I was speaking with a friend - chief of a mid-size police department. I’m not sure what I expected him to say, but what he told me was surprising. “I’m not getting any information from anyone,” he said with disappointment, “and what little I do get is no help.” One thing we both agreed on: a long-lasting event with extreme social restrictions, high unemployment numbers and uncertainty about the future signals a high probability of social/civil unrest and an increase in violent crime – across all demographics.
Yet, as in most times of trouble, some things are migrating back towards the center and stability. The current situation is bringing families closer together, and time to rediscover the wealth found in good kith and kin. Each day I pick someone I need to reconnect with and call to check on their status. Communities, friends and neighbors are assisting one another, making life a little easier. In many ways it’s back to basics, with everyone focusing on matters of true importance.
I have a good friend who is a virologist and pathologist. Back when reports on this virus were still novel and new, I asked his opinion on the possibility of this virus being the “one,” and becoming a real threat. “All I can tell you,” he responded, “is regardless of what you hear, good or bad, don’t believe it.”
It’s like the weather – the only thing I can tell you with certainty is what happened yesterday. There’s no way you can plan; preparedness is the key. It’s not complicated, just pay attention and keep working your O.O.D.A. Loop. Nobody knows what we’ll be facing next week, except that we’ll face it together. Until then, keep your powder dry, eyes on the horizon and nose in the wind.
Tiger McKee is director of Shootrite Firearms Academy, which is celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. He is the author of The Book of Two Guns, AR-15 Skills and Drills, has a regular column in American Handgunner and makes some cool knives and custom revolvers. Visit Shootrite’s Facebook page for other details.