In Times of Disaster

Lessons from the 2020 Pandemic:

Why Preparedness Matters in an Uncertain World

In recent years, global events have repeatedly exposed the presence of profound challenges and vulnerabilities in our society. The rapid spread of crises can reveal how fragile our systems truly are, amplifying fears and testing our resilience. One such event was the emergence of COVID-19 in late 2019—a novel strain from the coronavirus family, which includes viruses responsible for the common cold that have circulated among humans for decades. Many household disinfectants, like Lysol and Clorox, have long listed effectiveness against "human coronavirus" because they target these older, milder strains.

The outbreak triggered widespread panic in early 2020. People hoarded essentials like toilet paper and food, leading to empty shelves, arguments in stores, and scenes of frustration that highlighted the raw side of human behavior under stress. Schools closed, businesses shut down—both large and small—and governments urged citizens to stay home except for essential needs.

At the time, leaders expressed optimism about reopening the economy by Easter 2020 (April 12), hoping the disruptions would be short-lived. Yet the reality proved more complex and prolonged, raising serious concerns about how unprepared many were for extended uncertainty. While I'm not a medical expert and hold my own views on the situation, my focus here is on practical preparedness—something I've studied and applied—to help others build greater self-reliance for future challenges.

One key plea: When crises hit, people often rush to prepare, only to forget the lessons once things stabilize. If you care about your own security and, more importantly, your family's, treat these events as wake-up calls. Don't dismiss them as minor interruptions. Complete self-sufficiency in a prolonged disaster may be unrealistic, but you can significantly improve your household's readiness based on your lifestyle and resources.

Rethinking Finances and Lifestyle

Though not diving deeply into money matters, it's worth noting a common vulnerability: Many live beyond their means, prioritizing non-essentials in a consumer-driven culture. When disruptions arrive, limited savings and stockpiles leave families struggling to sustain themselves for even 2-3 months.

Reflect honestly: Do you spend on luxuries rather than necessities? Is your home larger than needed, your vehicle overloaded with features, or your closet filled with rarely used items? High-end tools or gear that sit unused don't contribute to real security. Everyone has the freedom to spend as they choose, but failing to adapt after hardships risks repeating the cycle—putting loved ones in unnecessary jeopardy.

Prioritizing Survival Essentials

In any disruption, certain basics become critical: food, water, medicine, security, and protection. The 2020 pandemic was serious, but the hysteria was somewhat contained compared to historical pandemics that devastated societies. We've been fortunate not to face those levels in our lifetimes, but history teaches hard lessons worth heeding to avoid becoming its next chapter.

Approach planning strategically, like mission preparation, but adapted to civilian life. At home, you have shelter and no immediate external threats, so priorities shift—food and water rise to the top, while defense remains essential but secondary.

A vital realization: Our nation isn't fully self-sufficient. Much of our goods, including food, come from abroad or distant suppliers. If trucking halted for just a week, shelves would empty nationwide. Few households maintain stockpiles or raise their own food sources. Take this as a serious signal—whatever your perspective—and use it to build lasting habits, rather than reverting to complacency.

Necessary Supplies

1. Water and water filtration/purification systems

2. Non-perishable food (shelf-stable, no refrigeration needed)

3. Basic medicines and first-aid items

4. Flashlights and extra batteries

5. Lighters, matches, and candles

6. Extra blankets for warmth

7. Caffeine sources (coffee, tea) for morale and alertness

8. Firewood and reliable fire starters

Lines of Defense and Security Considerations

1. External lighting, motion detectors, and security cameras

2. Locked doors and windows

3. Secured vehicles

4. Closed garage doors

5. Guard animals (e.g., dogs)

6. Pet door security (to prevent intrusions)

7. Alarm systems or alternative alerts

8. A clear internal defense plan

9. Regular training for household members

10. Firearm safety and proficiency training (where applicable and legal)

In closing, it would be ideal if we never faced such trials again. Yet humanity's history shows we're often unprepared, clinging to illusions of invincibility. We may boast advanced technology, strong defenses, and global power, but true threats often arise from within—supply chain fragility, over-reliance on systems, or lack of personal readiness.

As Abraham Lincoln wisely noted: "America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we lose our freedoms it will be because we have destroyed ourselves from within."

Prepare thoughtfully, learn from the past, and build resilience for whatever lies ahead.