The Rabbit Hole

When we emerge, can we reunite?

Merriam Webster defines rabbit hole as “a complexly bizarre or difficult state or situation conceived of as a hole into which one falls or descends.” Isn’t this an accurate description for our lives these past 2½ years?

Here is the CDC’s COVID Timeline (if you want to reflect on it).

Patrick Boyle writes in an AAMC article that “medical science is creating miracles and losing trust.” Many believe it wasn’t just a COVID thing but the pandemic allowed a beach landing for the perfect storm that had been building for some time.

Science has historically united us. How do we come back together? I combed the literature looking for pearls to share. The sea was empty. So I have to propose my own ideas. Here goes:

Do not come across as knowing more than someone else does (even though you are a scientist and you actually do). They believe they are properly educated and equally informed. Share information not on an acute and perhaps contentious subject, but something of science they can relate to more readily. It could be their child’s school project, a hurt knee from running, a medication they just started, a space launch, etc. Find a way to return them to science.

Continuously look for a common thread.

With some people, this can be difficult. But remember, even the healthcare professionals who denied the science during the pandemic still care about people and care for them. Thank them for what they do. One thing we can agree on is we all want to eliminate/cure diseases and relieve suffering in the world.  

On Medical Grounds interviewed Melody Butler, BSN, RN, CIC who describes her own initial hesitations about the COVID vaccine and her trip down the rabbit hole (and back out). Take a listen.