Old Survival Wisdom in times of Covid 19

In these trying times of COVID-19, it may be helpful to draw some wisdom from the old U.S. Army Survival, Evasion, and Escape Manual (FM 21-76). While this manual was meant to help soldiers and airmen trapped behind enemy lines, some wisdom is always helpful.

S – Size up the Situation (Assess your Finances, Food, Supplies, Opportunities. Do you need to cut back? Do you need to make a list of items to procure? What can you do without? Do you need to get a temporary job fetching groceries to keep a roof over your head?)

U – Undue Haste Makes Waste and Use Your Senses (Don't waste scarce resources like paper towels Don't by 60 rolls of toilet paper.)

R – Remember Where You Are (If you live in a free western Democracy with modern medicine, you are blessed. For most of us, society will still function and we will persevere.)

V – Vanquish Fear and Panic (Worry doesn't help. Cut back on the news. You're probably not an epidemiologist or a politician. You just need to know actions you can take. Find out if you need to stay inside, wash your hands, and wear a mask outside. Worry and stress can debilitate you and make you useless to your family when they need you.)

I – Improvise (Make you own masks, TP alternatives, etc. Lots of smart people are finding ways to protect themselves and their families.)

V – Value Life (These times will pass. Don't act like there is no tomorrow. There is a tomorrow and you need to do your best to be in it. Every life is precious including your life and the lives of your neighbors and countrymen. Don't get the virus. Don't spread the virus.)

A – Act like the Natives (This is really about blending in and making use of the resources locals have at hand when you are behind enemy lines. If the natives include Florida Man or other dumb ass party people, don't act like them. Keep your social distance and be smart.)

L – Learn Basic Skills or Live by Your Wits (What is this stove for anyway? Do I really need to join 150 stress out people in a Warehouse Store? When this is done, you'll likely know how to cook and you'll know how to stretch a dollar. Use your brain. Stay in the fight.)

Just stay calm.  Think.  Make moves that are rational and planned.  You can do this!