The Future is Ours to Mold

Per the governor, we are all under a "stay at home order" which has asked that we remain safe at home and only leave for essential trips. The "stay at home order" will remain in effect until May 18, 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges that none of us could have adequately prepared for. Drastic public health measures including shutting down all non-essential businesses has undoubtedly saved lives but has also cost millions their jobs. This unpredictable new world has taken a huge toll on our physical, mental and economical health.

We are starting to see a promising downward trend in the number of new cases in Massachusetts which is the direct result of our sacrifices made over the past 6 weeks. The encouraging news combined with our pandemic fatigue may temp us to let down our guard and resume "normal" activities.

We need to prepared for the new "normal." I am confident that our world will reopen when the timing is right, allowing for businesses and people to

safely return to work and social activities.

I urge you to comply with the "stay at home order" and allow for the trend of cases to continue to decline so that once the order is lifted, the case numbers will be at a minimum. You should continue to practice all public health recommendations including washing hands, maintaining the recommended physical distance of 6 ft between you and anyone outside of your home and start to adapt to wearing a mask whenever in public.

The next phase of the COVID-19 pandemic will be defined by our ability to effectively follow all public health measures. Luckily for us, this is not our first marathon. We will get through this together. I can see the finish line but the race isn't over yet.