>https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/16/apple-delays-return-to-office-indefinitely.html
>
>Kudos to Apple.
>
>NYT reports that the US COVID death count has reached 800K+.
>At the risk of being repetitive, I'll remind all that the the US military death count in WWII was 450K+.
>This is catastrophic.
>The VA here in NJ has done a good job getting the vets vaccinated and boostered but the death count continues to rise and some people just don't get it.
>The local symphony orchestra I support is planning a New Years eve concert.
>That is insane and I've told them that.
>
>I was around in WWII when we had to do without meat and turn out the lights at night to avoid air raids. Guys with gas masks walked the streets every night to look for enemies. There were no cars on the road because gas was rationed.
>We made it through that.
>
>Isolation is a bummer but that's what we have to do till this thing passes.

Yes. Compared to that time the measures we're being asked to take now seem like nothing.

- Wear a mask when in public places.
- Avoid large gatherings.
- Reduce long-distance travel.
- Get vaccinated and boostered (unless you have a medical reason not to) ASAP.
- Get tested if you think you've been exposed or if you have symptoms.

None of that rises to a crisis level. It's a little sad not to travel for the holidays like I would normally, but it's not a huge deal and I can see everyone via the miracle of ubiquitous and free video calling. It can be hard to socialize with masks on, but you can always go outside and stay 6 feet apart.

Get vaccinated and boostered & encourage everyone you know to do the same. It is safe and it WILL save your life (or the life of someone you love).
Wear a mask when you're in public for the same reason you'd wear a sweater when it's cold.

Good luck to everyone. Stay healthy.