Letter to the editor: The coronavirus will test American society. Are we up to it?

Our great test

The debate about whether more should have been done months ago to prevent the coronavirus outbreak must end. Leaders at all levels of government will need all of us to help deal with what’s here.

Many, maybe even most, of us have been unwilling or unable to purchase what may be needed to sustain life for weeks or months. What would a desperate person do to feed his starving family members? Are there limits to what an otherwise honest American will do?

Some hoteliers lie when they shout “free breakfast” on billboards. Be careful what you wish for when you hear failing politicians promise “free” checks, medications and education. Where will you cash the checks if bankers are sick?

Encourage your leaders to provide lifesaving relief and protection for those who can’t pay for it. Let’s praise legislators who will vote to delay collecting taxes.

I thought 9/11 would help more Americans put God and country first. Maybe this is what it will take. Maybe we will become more considerate of others’ opinions.

Maybe this chaos will prompt us to offer personal talents to help others. I’ve not been worthy of prayer that has helped me. I prayed before I penned these words. I believe we’re on trial here. How can we appreciate a perfect eternal good if we have not experienced the temporary bad? Meanwhile, may God find our nation deserving of another bailout.

- W. Kim Sexton, Independence