Let’s acknowledge the fact that social distancing and sheltering in place – effectively shutting down the economy – is not to save lives. Instead, it is to “flatten the curve” so that hospitals and resources are not overwhelmed and can provide – to some greater extent – compassionate care to critical patients.
This small window of time to prepare has come and will pass by. The virus has spread, and its ultimate toll will come sooner or later. Restarting the economy is not about valuing money over lives. It is about valuing the future existence of our country and preserving the inalienable rights it provides our citizens; rights millions of young men and women have fought and died for before us.
Whether we want to admit it or not, our country, our culture and our values as we know them are enabled – at least in large part – by this country’s collective business prowess and the leverage it affords us globally, which includes small businesses. Most certainly, though, it is our precious large corporations which anchor the fate of our future. May we help them all thrive.
– Lucas Smith
Anchorage
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