The Calm in the Storm

by Bonnie Biocchi, Executive Director

For an industry that prides itself on reliability and preparedness, the COVID-19 Pandemic is testing even the most stalwart among us. In addition to reviewing and updating business continuity plans, managing a remote workforce, sequestering mission critical workers, planning for the possibility of a Mutual Aid event, acquiring scarce PPE and maintaining vigilance for COVID-19 related cyber threats, Public Power has responded as efficiently and effectively as possible in an effort to keep the lights on for all of us. To help you stay current in a constantly changing landscape NEPPA created our Covid-19 Resource Center, which we hope you have found useful. We have been communicating a great deal of information and are hopefully not over-loading your inbox in the process.

While there have been hundreds of briefings, webinars, calls and virtual meetings among our members, no one has yet been able to determine when this virus will run its course or what the economic toll will really be. That uncertainty presents a challenge for sure. The unknown provokes fear which can spawn a whole host of behaviors that are not helpful during a crisis. The hoarding of toilet paper being just one of them!

What does it take to be the calm in the storm? My 90-year-old Dad sets a good example.  He says this: “Of course it’s bad, but it’s not the end of the world. You have to be careful, but you also have to keep moving forward.” This from a man who insists on still going out to get his own groceries. Maybe when you are 90 and have lived through the Great Depression, World War II, the Cuban Missile Crisis, 911 and many other extremely challenging times, it is easier to be philosophical about things, including pandemics. But his resolute spirit and his unshakeable conviction that everything will turn out alright, is something that I try to imitate for my own family.

One of the things that I find helpful during times of crisis is to think about the many things for which I am thankful. During this past week, two people I know died from COVID-19. Both died without their families by their sides. While that is unimaginably sad, I am thankful that through technology and the kindness of strangers (nurses), both were able to say goodbye to their families. I am thankful for all of the first responders and health care workers who are putting their own health and safety on the line. I am also extremely grateful that no one from my immediate family has taken ill.

As we go forward through these difficult weeks, I encourage you to spend some portion of your day taking care of yourself. Take a walk or run, or hop on your bike. The fresh air will be healthful. Call a friend, send an old-fashioned, handwritten letter or facetime with a distant relative - each of you will benefit from hearing each other’s voices. Create an outdoor obstacle course for your kids. Teach them the wonders of housework!  Work in your garden, spend some time fishing or just write down your story. Listen (and sing along) to music from your youth. Do something that connects you beyond the craziness of the COVID-19 updates, the constant pandemic planning and the non-stop, all-consuming news cycle.

And please share your good news and stories with us. We are increasing our social media to spread the word about the positive things you are doing for your communities.  Check out some of the thoughtful ways NEPPA members are engaging with their customers. In this way, you will stay connected, share some lighter moments and maintain an appreciation for all the positive things that are going right despite the pandemic. That is my wish for you. That, and of course that you please stay healthy!