A Few Minutes with the Mayor – June 2020

With time on my hands, as so many of us have these days, I was surfing the Internet when this quotation popped up on my screen: “When everything seems to be against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” No… that’s not a quote from a Charlie Chan movie, though it sounds like one. It’s actually a quote from Henry Ford, one that seems appropriate in these days of social distancing, face mask wearing, and disinfectant spraying on every inanimate object within eyesight. If you are growing virus-weary, my message is Take Heart! There will be an end to this. As I write this on May 5th there has been only one new case of a Coronavirus infection in the last 17 days in all of Jackson County. That’s one person in 2,802 square miles. Let me repeat… 2,802 square miles!

OK! I can hear someone say, “Maybe that’s true but I can still be the next one to catch this thing.” True! In no way am I suggesting you should stop preventative measures such as social distancing. What I am saying is don’t be afraid. The odds are all on your side. I believe it was President Roosevelt who said, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” He was dealing with a war that eventually killed 3% of the world’s population… 85 million people.

All wars create fear in people. The war on this invisible enemy, which has already claimed too many lives, is no different. However, I believe we are seeing this war turn in our favor, as it must. It’s been quite a ride so far but hang on. The sunlight is just around the corner.

This virus has been difficult for everyone, but it has also demonstrated not only the resilience of Jacksonville’s citizens, but their spirit of community. I’ve met more people walking the streets with a welcoming smile and “Hello” than I can previously recall. Cordial before all this, they are downright congenial right now.

It’s also heartening to see people supporting our closed restaurants by ordering takeout food. This is a welcome support that becomes more needed with every passing day of the shutdown ordered by the governor.

I am grateful for our first responders, our fire and police personnel, who continue to serve all of us in these difficult times. The words of support for them by our President in his message for the National Day of Prayer are directed to all of us. Here in part is that message:

“…I now encourage all Americans to pray for those on the front lines of the response, especially our Nation’s outstanding medical professionals and public health officials who are working tirelessly to protect all of us from the coronavirus and treat patients who are infected; all of our courageous first responders, National Guard, and dedicated individuals who are working to ensure the health and safety of our communities; and our Federal, State, and local leaders.

We are confident that He will provide them with the wisdom they need to make difficult decisions and take decisive actions to protect Americans all across the country. As we come to our Father in prayer, we remember the words found in Psalm 91: ‘He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust.

As we unite in prayer, we are reminded that there is no burden too heavy for God to lift or for this country to bear with His help. Luke 1:37 promises that ‘For with God nothing shall be impossible,’ and those words are just as true today as they have ever been.

As one Nation under God, we are greater than the hardships we face, and through prayer and acts of compassion and love, we will rise to this challenge and emerge stronger and more united than ever before. May God bless each of you, and may God bless the United States of America.”

To which I can only add Amen!