When we acquire knowledge, we learn. Sometimes this happens when we explore something new and seek information. Other times, learning happens when our experiences shift our perception and challenge our pre-existing beliefs. As adults, there are times where we stop in our tracks and realize our previous thinking was wrong.
This is one of those times. Like many Canadians, I am watching press conferences and reading news stories as COVID-19 spreads worldwide. Just weeks ago, when the disease had little impact in Canada, I jumped on the bandwagon and laughed at memes of people over-reacting and clearing grocery shelves, hoarding a huge supply of essential items like toilet paper. I assumed the panic associated with this disease was largely due to media hype and hysteria.