Not draconian

Mia Dorren's comments in the letters column of the Daily Herald deserve a response.

The number of deaths from coronavirus in the U.S. is escalating. COVID-19 has been declared a pandemic. We now know it affects people of all ages. We are being requested, not forced, to self-quarantine and stay home to decrease the spread of the disease.

Calling the lockdown draconian is hyperbole. The Nazi regime was draconian. Its goal was extermination, purposefully murdering men, women and children. The purpose of the lockdown is to save lives. It is disruptive, but not cruel. It is not being forced upon us by law enforcement or the military.

Society is not shut down. We still have our basic needs fulfilled; food, shelter, water. We have found creative ways to socialize and stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Churches have provided fellowship and worship services online. Educators are making it possible for children to continue their lessons. School districts are providing technology to facilitate learning and are providing meals. Friends and neighbors are checking in on one another more often.

Most of us are willingly participating in the cooperative effort to stop the spread of the virus. Unfortunately there are individuals who chose not to follow World Health Directives despite the death count rising. Perhaps they feel their own needs for life and liberty are more important than the needs of others. Tell that to all of those who are on the front lines, willing to place themselves in peril to save lives, deliver supplies or provide services.

Society is not collapsing. In fact, our collective effort to defeat the coronavirus has shown that despite our differences, we can work together in times of great need. A vaccine will be developed. Meanwhile, is it pleasant? Certainly not, but we are strong enough do what needs to be done to get through this time.

Joanne Gurion

Dundee