Last night we received an email from our board of education which stated that they decided to cancel school indefinitely. Although it’s something we were expecting, it makes everyone feel a little uneasy…
I really hate watching all the hype on TV about the Coronavirus (aka covid-19). It pretty much has the world in a panic. I remember the H1N1 Virus (aka swine flu) of 2009, which killed over 4,000 people and there wasn’t as much coverage about it. As a matter of fact, it wasn’t until months later that the president decided to take action. I don’t ever get involved in politics but I can’t help but wonder how the coverage overload may be a political tactic. And to think that the virus originated in Wuhan, China and they’re now blaming the U.S. for its presence, go figure.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m just as concerned about the Coronavirus as the next person and we’re taking appropriate measures to stay safe and healthy. I honestly find the meltdown that is currently taking place somewhat ridiculous. Everyday basic hygiene is something EVERYONE should already be doing! People running to the stores to stock up on toilet paper like it’s a war zone is mind blowing and not helpful, thus creating panic.
In case you need a gentle reminder on how to stay healthy and avoid transmitting any viruses, follow this simple guideline:
- Stay home if you’re sick. If you have any flu-like symptoms call your doctor immediately. Chances are you can give it to others. Stay home until your doctor advices you otherwise.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and water, or if unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Contain your coughs and sneezes. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. To avoid contaminating your hands, cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inner crook of your elbow.
- Avoid contact. Stay away from crowds at all possible. And if you’re at high risk of complications from the flu — for example, you’re younger than 5 or you’re 65 or older, you’re pregnant, or you have a chronic medical condition such as asthma — avoid contact with others.
I’m disappointed that we still haven’t heard much about the people that were confirmed to having the virus and have since recovered without any medical complications. All we hear is about the amount of spread that is taking place. It would be somewhat comforting to know how many people have had the virus and then since recovered.
Having said all of that, and without sounding doom and gloom, I want to take the opportunity to share some information that perhaps you haven’t been privy to. I’m referring to how things are rapidly declining in our society and what it all means.
THE FOUR HORSEMEN OF REVELATION
Have your ever heard of these riders? In staying with topic, the prophecy about the rider of the pale horse is notably being fulfilled by global disease epidemics in our time. While the four horsemen may seem mysterious and terrifying, that does not have to be the case. The Bible and the events of modern history help us to identify clearly what each horseman pictures. And although their ride has signaled calamity on earth, it can also mean good news for you and your family.
The rider of the pale horse represents death due to plague and other causes. Soon after 1914, the Spanish flu killed tens of millions. Possibly some 500 million people were infected, about 1 out of every 3 humans then alive! But the Spanish flu was just the beginning. Experts estimate that hundreds of millions died of smallpox during the 20th century. To this day, the lives of millions are cut short by AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, despite intensive medical research. The result is the same, death—whether due to war, famine, or plague. The Grave relentlessly gathers up the victims, offering no hope.
But take heart! The present times of trouble will soon end! Instead of plague and death, there will be perfect health and eternal life for all. God “will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.”—Revelation 21:4.
For the list and identities of the Four Horsemen visit here. At JW.org you can also find all sorts of information you may be curious about. We are living in unprecedented times that require our full attention. By staying alert and educated about Bible prophecies you can enjoy life now with a new hope for a better future.
