By John “Turbo” Shatesky (TurboRules.com; BullspikeRadio.com, RockAgainstDystrophy.org)
All this coronavirus panic has me chuckling. Why? Because we, the disabled, have lived one day at a time since birth; have to stay home when health is more important than being seen; and know how to stay chill and plan logically while the majority of the abled act like chickens without heads.
Being home for you own health will be new to most of you, but technology has made it easier. So allow me to share some helpful hints for living as a member of the disabled community:
– If you have cable or satellite TV, you will notice there’s a lot of channels beyond the five you usually watch. Scan through the guide and try some TV shows you’ve never watched.
– After Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video binge watching, look for the cool TV shows and movies of the past. Re-watch your favorites, or discover new ones that didn’t get a huge financial boost.
– Read books. If you don’t have any, have never heard of them, or don’t remember what they are, practically every smartphone or tablet can get you eBooks.
– Listen to music — I mean, REALLY listen. Dig out your CDs or vinyls and indulge. Search for new music online, and if you find music you like, BUY IT: You’ll be giving that band or artist a helping hand (since the local music venues in the area are closed).
– Text, or, dare I say, call friends you haven’t talked to recently. Catch up in a way that you can actually give each other full attention instead of yelling over crowds in a bar or venue.
– For those of you who suddenly find themselves in the presence of children — you know, those people you send to that babysitter called school when they’re not being raised by social media? Introduce yourself to and interact with your children (the bigger children are called teenagers). Find out their interests, and share your favorite cartoons, movies, music, and so on with each other. That is to say, be a parent.
– Check on your neighbors. Even if they’re younger then you, your age, and especially if they’re older. Make sure they’re OK without putting either of you at risk.
These tips should help you survive being indoors. Plus, they will remind you of how society once was before everyone became only interested in themselves.
You have just been given some of the ways of the disabled and of humanity. Use them well.