A Crisis is a Terrible Thing to Waste

Stanford economist Paul Romer is credited with the statement, “A crisis is a terrible thing to waste.” I am not exactly sure what Dr. Romer had in mind, but the present health crisis and all of its implications certainly drive us to reflect, learn, and reorient ourselves. Now is a good time to ask these questions:

First, what’s really important? During this time of pandemic, we have the opportunity to reassess what is really important in our lives. Most of us would probably say that people and our relationships are primary. We seek human connection whether in our families or beyond. Even the most introverted persons among us desire the ability to communicate and respond to others. We also realize that this is a time to attend to “the least of these” who are struggling to survive.

Second, what’s not important? This is a great time to consider the difference between our needs and our wants. We all have basic needs that are essential (see Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs) and then there are the nice to have aspects of life. We will differ on these. Although I would probably say Major League Baseball and the NBA are nice to have but not essential, I am sure that others would disagree! I tend to think coffee is extremely important to my way of life; others would question my sanity. When we are deprived of things we are used to, we can stop and consider what is not really that important.

Third, what am I learning? This is the natural consequence of the first two questions and where the quote from Dr. Romer has impact. Since we find ourselves in this situation and can’t readily escape, what are we going to learn in the process? As a result of what is happening right now, how might my life, actions, and attitudes change going forward?

When you are taking those nice, long walks you might consider these questions.

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