Avian Affluenza

Of late, in some circles, there has been much debate over the ethics of prepping for a pandemic. There are some who contend that it is unethical to do so when there are others in this world who, due to economic reasons, are unable to do likewise. There are deep moral and religious reasons behind their thinking, and while I do not share them, I do respect them.

The idea of going down with the ship, tho, while noble, is not one that I embrace. We have always lived in a world with limited means, and there have always been people who, due to their location, or poverty, who do not have access to the things that others do. A sad reality.

But before too many people jump onto this bandwagon, I would submit that there is one overriding ethical reason to prepare. For everyone who does prepare, it takes some of the burden off of the governments and relief agencies who will be trying to feed and care for those who can’t.

By prepping, you will reduce the line for food and water during a crisis, and someone else can have those resources in your place. You will also free yourself up so you can help others.

It isn’t hoarding to buy now, while supplies are abundant. It isn’t selfish to take care of your loved ones. And by being prepared, you may be able to lend assistance to your neighbors and friends. It's a win-win situation.

Most Americans, and a great many of other people around the world, could set back a modest supply of food and water. A hundred dollars will buy several hundred pounds of beans and rice. Water can be stored in rinsed recycled 2 liter bottles. It doesn’t take a lot of money to be minimally prepared.

Perhaps it will mean skipping going out to the movies once a month. Or forgoing a dinner at a nice restaurant. But a few hundred dollars spent today, could save your life during a crisis.

Guilt over being affluent enough to prep is, in my opinion, misplaced. But everyone has to seek their own level of comfort, and reach their own moral decision here.

While the virus may get me, despite my preps, I do not intend to assist it in that endeavor. There are people I care about, and intend to help during this crisis. I can't do that if I'm dead or scrambling for my daily cup of rice from the government.

But hey, that's just me. YMMV. (Your milage may vary)