This pandemic situation reminds me of a maxim that resonates with me. It is the humanistic / postmodern perspective that perception is reality. Now I do believe there are some absolute truths, but I would be reluctant to espouse them. Here is a quote from the person considered the father of counseling, Carl Rogers. "The only reality I can possibly know is the world as I perceive and experience it at this moment. The only reality you can possibly know is the world as you perceive and experience it at this moment. And the only certainty is that those perceived realities are different."5/13/20 Perception is Reality vs. Reality TV

We all see the world (including this pandemic) through our own lens. How could we possibly see it differently? Our paradigm is a natural extension of our: gender, age, birth order, ethnicity, race, religious or spiritual beliefs, education, socio-economic status, geographic location / origin, values, career choice, relationship status, and all the other stuff including traumatic and wonderful life experiences.

The question for me is,  can I honor my perspective (reality) without dismissing yours? Can I hold my truth and allow others to do the same?

I also believe we are a better society when we appreciate, respect and make policies informed by this diversity!

Warmly,