There are times in modern history where nations came together in such a dramatic and unexpected way as to defeat an enemy of unknown strength and veracity. Today we face such an enemy in the coronavirus. We do not know how pervasive it is. We do not know how long it will last. We do not know how lasting the after effects will be. Our society is on edge, perhaps even upside down. Individuals are scared and facing personal crises surrounding their health, loved ones, and even toilet paper.
As we think about our current situation, it is helpful to think of other examples where nations came together to overcome unknown and seemingly insurmountable odds. During World War II there were air raids on Britain, specifically the London Blitz. For 57 consecutive nights Nazi Germany bombed London. Every night was marked with explosions, destruction and frequently death.
Civilians were murdered by an invisible enemy in their own homes during the night. There was a shortage of hospital beds and medicine. There were food and water shortages. Schools were closed. Stores and markets were destroyed. Factories were destroyed. People sheltered at home and underground. Fear gripped a nation in a way that had never before been seen in the world. Think about it . . . 57 nights in a row.
While there is clearly a difference between where we are today and a World War, we are only 15 – 20 days into our fight with an invisible enemy.
In the end, Britain prevailed. We will too.