The COVID-19 virus has now infected over 7 million people and led to over 400,000 deaths worldwide. There are many unknowns when dealing with new diseases, but the Coronavirus has proven that it is unmatched in the ability to wreak havoc on humanity. The widespread infections and deaths in less than 6 months demonstrate the virulence and strength of a pathogen who refuses to respond to our strategies.
As of May 20th, only one country, New Zealand, remains free from the Coronavirus. What gave New Zealand the upper hand?
“The Prime Minister communicated well and is trusted by the public. According to Wilson, “New Zealand shows the benefit of having quite high levels of scientific expert input into the policymaking process and a Prime Minister who is a very good communicator who had the public trust.” Their plan was developed, implemented, and followed by its residents, who believed that their bodies were worth the sacrifice of social distancing and sheltering-in-place.
Solidarity, following sound scientific advice, realizing the importance of your own life along with the well-being of others are the key factors to a successful outcome against COVID-19. If only, we could have placed these values above the political dissension, the lack of respect for the scientists, medical and health care professionals, and the overwhelming desire for economic stability then ________________________________________ (you fill in the blank).
Are you aware that the last pandemic caused by the H1N1 virus lasted for 16 months? Although there were vaccines administered to over 1,000,000 individuals, and most healthy people, ages 60 and over were immune to the Swine flu, we were involved in a health crisis from April 2009-August 2010. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic-resources/2009-pandemic-timeline.html
We are still limited in our knowledge of how to eliminate the COVID-19 virus. Even so, if every individual would actively practice proven infection control principles, at least we could console ourselves because individually, we are doing our part in decreasing the spread of the virus. Still, we must continue to protect ourselves, and by managing our safe-keeping, we are also protecting others.
The transmission of this virus is airborne, meaning that the droplets spread through the air by talking, sneezing, laughing, and coughing. Social distancing is still the most effective method of staying safe. Wearing a triple-layered facemask provides the highest level of protection available to the general public in the effort to reduce the spread of this virus. Use the mask sparingly for entering places that recycle their air, such as supermarkets, and when you are outside of your home and around other individuals.
Remember, only the N95 Respirator Mask gives 100% protection by preventing the virus from being inhaled.
Proper handwashing has and always will be the most effective method of breaking the chain of disease transmission. Only use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. The overuse of this alcohol-based disinfectant disrupts the healthy flora balance of the skin, which leaves us defenseless against contact organisms.
We have a responsibility to God to care for our bodies. The one thing that we still have total control over is the care and self-protection of our physical bodies. Do not let other individuals persuade you to let down your guard during this pandemic.
First, we have to acknowledge and thank God that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God has provided our bodies with an entire system to fight diseases. Our Immune system relies on proper nutrition and rest. The most effective measures are to have a healthy diet which consists of lots of vegetables and fruits. The body receives little to no vitamins and minerals from fast foods, restaurant cooked meals, and a diet heavy in meat consumption.
Then God said, “Behold, I have given you every seed-bearing plant on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit contains seed. They will be yours for food. Genesis 1:29
Whether we agree or not, God created humanity to consume a plant-based diet. It is a personal choice to care for one’s body in a manner that strengthens and boosts the power of our natural immunity. Now is the time to trust in the original health plan that God has designed for His created beings.
When we place ourselves in God’s hand, victory is guaranteed. Although we cannot be presumptuous that Believers will not contract or die from the Coronavirus, we honor God through obedience by caring for our physical health as well as our spiritual relationship. And we praise God by loving our neighbor, which includes upholding standards for the optimal physical health of all humanity.
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
We can have a healthier lifestyle by making a few positive changes. The body’s response to the inflow of nutritional foods is phenomenal; mental clarity, high energy levels, and a positive outlook. Yes, the Endocrine system, which is responsible for the production of hormones, can normalize and achieve the correct hormonal balance, especially with insulin secretion. The removal of toxins from the body places us in sync with God’s perfect plan of a plant-based diet, exercise, fresh air, and sunlight. Your body will thank you.
We were not created to sit in front of electronic objects and have a mental diet of watching programs, movies, and mind-wasting games. Seeking entertainment that involves little to no physical activity, is self-destructive. Decide to get outside every day. It is still possible to maintain social distancing by researching and finding less populated scenic areas.
Yesterday, we traveled 40 minutes to visit a beautiful state park with a lake that almost equaled the size of an ocean, a swimming area, shade trees, covered picnic areas, and free screened-in cabins. We took a walk and sat in our stadium chairs, relaxing under a tree that protected us from the strength of the sun’s rays. It felt wonderful to enjoy the cool breeze that enabled us to relax and release every tension.
As we viewed the vastness of the water and the abundant plant life, we acknowledged that God really loves humanity to have created the planet Earth for our enjoyment and a peaceful lifestyle. Preparation for Eternal life requires that we place our lives in the hands of our Creator. Many individuals live as if God does not require faith, trust, and obedience. The God who lovingly created us is still faithful even when we fail.
Love God, Love Others, Love Yourself! Stay Aware and Stay Safe!
Bible Readings: Genesis 1-2
God, we thank you for making us in your image and for the beauty of nature. Please give us the strength to make the positive changes in our lifestyle so that we can reach the optimal level of health that you intended for us to possess. We ask for your protection from the COVID-19 virus and for healing for those who are infected. Please comfort the families of those who have succumbed to the disease. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the written permission of the author.
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