Ive thought and Ive thought and Ive thought about what in the world I want to use this space for today.

This week Ive had so many thoughts. Ive wished more people were taking the coronavirus pandemic more seriously. Id be lying if I hadnt had some thoughts of fear because Im immune-compromised as is my family. Ive worried about others who are at risk. Ive thought about my role as a journalist and how important the news is right now. Ive thought about the kindness so many have displayed and how wonderful our community is.

On top of that, Ive asked so many questions: How long will this last? What does our future look like? How will our communitys economy survive? What does this mean for our education and healthcare systems?

COVID-19 has taken over the world in a way thats truly unfathomable.

In Alabama, students and faculty wont return to school; theyll do it all from home through the end of the school year. Athletes wont return to the fields. If high school students are even able to have a prom, it certainly wont be the one theyve dreamt of. Plans are still being made for how if at all graduations will be held. Educators are heartbroken; the classroom is their sanctuary and their students are their families. Everyone is hurting.

I have to be honest; I cant pinpoint what I want to say because I dont know. Everything is so uncertain and surreal.

Like so many right now, Im just lost.

Ive always been intentional with my space on this page. Sometimes its simply sharing my life experiences but in everything I write, I try to help somebody in some way. Maybe my words will make someone smile; maybe my little ole words of wisdom will be the advice someone needs; or maybe somebody can just relate to what Ive been through and know theyre not alone.

So thats what Ill do try to help.

I like to offer solutions when I can, and right now Im unfortunately not full of them. None of us is. But I do know one thing for certain: We will get through this.

Our communities will survive. Were strong and come together when we need each other most. Limited public contact hasnt been a barrier so far for local civic clubs, organizations and individuals to provide assistance to others. In times of trouble, unity is formed. I have no doubt well figure out how to maneuver through this together.

We cant come apart, not now. The only way were going to get through this is by working together. As President Donald Trump said Friday, Republicans and Democrats have even come together right now because we dont have another option. Its so good to see people already coming together especially in our community and everyone lending a hand where they can. And we have to continue that or were not going to make it.

My advice is for us to lean on one another well, not literally, yall social distancing please. But really, we have to stick together through this. Although we cant physically be together, the only way were going to survive this is by standing tall with that unity weve shown we can display time and time again.

We have to be kind, offer help where we can, take care of ourselves and do all we can to stay positive.

We dont know what the future holds but we do know weve got each other. Lets follow the rules to prevent spreading this disease and keep it that way.

Santana Wood is the managing editor of The Outlook.

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Stick together now even though we're lost - The Alexander City Outlook