Dear Annie: You have a lot of common sense, and I am writing to you because I am looking for an outside opinion about my sudden pessimism about current events. Normally, I wouldn’t care what is going on in the world, other than as an observer.
But it seems like lately, world events keep changing our lives, and not always for the better.
Obviously, the biggest change came from COVID-19 and all the tragic deaths worldwide. But that included lockdowns — a term used in prisons. Then I read about a study from the prestigious Johns Hopkins University in which scientists examined a whole bunch of studies that concluded that lockdowns did almost nothing to prevent deaths.
I used to travel a fair amount, but I am reluctant to fly because I picture crowded airports, security lines and tightly packed planes with some passengers who no doubt have COVID-19, and we would all be breathing the same air.
It has been two years since this pandemic started, and I haven’t gotten the virus yet, so I figure I’ll wait a while before trying to get back to where I was before the pandemic. I am vaccinated and have one booster shot.
But then there is the news that Russia is invading Ukraine, and I can’t fathom how Russian President Vladimir Putin thinks he can recreate the USSR and control a free people in 2022.
What’s happening with China? I watched some of the Olympics, but the setting seemed like it was at an industrial park or a nuclear power plant. When the athletes would finish a ski run, they would immediately put on their masks while standing outside in the open air. It made me uncomfortable to watch.
Gas prices are through the roof, and I keep hearing about “supply shortages” when I go to the supermarket. I went to a pet store the other day and could buy only four cans of the cat food that my cat likes. That’s all they had left, and the employees said they have no idea when they will get more.
I am sure things will get better. They always do. But right now, I am feeling powerless because of what is happening all over the world. Do you or your readers have any suggestions for how I can cheer up? I am curious to know how other people are handling all these disruptions. — Feeling Powerless
Dear Feeling Powerless: For me, the best answer is found in the Serenity Prayer. “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” Once you really embrace that philosophy, you will start to lighten up and feel better.
You are not alone in your feelings, and I would be curious to hear suggestions from other readers who are coping successfully these days, despite some pretty scary news from all over the globe.
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