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There was only one real story in the world news this week – coronavirus. I am not an expert of infectious diseases, but let me say up front that while I think the threat is real, I think the U.S. will avoid the worst of it. While the disease is less dangerous than previous strains like H1N1 or the Avian flu, the fact that it is not more lethal can make it more difficult to detect, and therefore more likely to spread. In response to the epidemic, the stock market has taken the worst beating since the great recession in 2008. This is more of a reaction to the number of companies that rely on foreign markets for labor and sales growth. My advice is to ignore the political rhetoric and take the precautions that are recommended by the CDC. We have encountered these threats before and we will get past this one as well. My son and I both have chronic sinus issues, and are susceptible to colds and sinus infections. I’m a big believer in steam and hot tea as deterrents to infection. Beyond that, I don’t plan to alter my plans a whole lot at this point. Stay healthy!
Regardless of political persuasion, most people think the rhetoric of politics has gotten out of control. If you believe that, as I do, there IS something you can do about it. You can ask yourself whether you are helping or hurting the situation. I like to say that there are two types of people in the world: people who add stress and people who relieve stress. I think similarly, some people are adding to the political spectacle in the country, and others are at least trying for something better.
Gary's Blog will return next week.
This past week, the National Association of Realtors invited me to participate in a meeting with the NAR leadership and Jonathan Kanter, the Assistant Attorney General of the United States.