As the viral pandemic rages on, you'd think we'd have gotten used to the people who aren't taking this seriously and endangering the lives of others.
Like the other week, when it was reported that spring breakers were still packing Florida beaches, despite warnings to, you know, not do that.
In case you need your memory jogged, this is what I'm referring to.
The first young man in that video has been revealed to be an Ohio resident, and aspiring Soundcloud rapper named Brady Sluder. He is infamously quoted across social media saying that if he gets the disease, he gets the disease.
His comments at the time summed up the negative press for people who haven't been self-quarantining. And know they're helping spread the contagion, but seemingly don't care.
After Sluder stopped partying, he gave an apology on his Instagram
Sluder apologized for his rash comments, saying he wasn't fully aware of the severity.
He posted:
"Like many others, I have elderly people who I adore more than anything in the world and other family members who are at risk, and I understand how concerning this disease is for us all."
"Our generation may feel invincible, like I did when I commented, but we have a responsibility to listen and follow the recommendations in our communities."
In his caption, he goes further with the apology, saying,
"I can't apologize enough to the people i've offended and the lives I've insulted. I'm not asking for your forgiveness, or pity."
"I want to use this as motivation to become a better person, a better son, a better friend, and a better citizen."
It's a pretty dang good apology.
Seriously, it's kind of impressive when a teenager has a better apology than most celebrities who have entire media teams.
There are some inaccuracies to examine here though.
First is the fact that while he doesn't say this directly, there is the implication that he himself is not in danger. It's just the people he might pass it to.
While the virus is very dangerous for the elderly, it absolutely can affect people who are younger. People in their 20s and 30s have been hospitalized and even died from it.
Don't get me wrong, it's great you want to save grandma. But this disease can seriously threaten you, no matter your age.
Some speculated the apology was ghost written.
All that said, the more voices we have supporting health officials, the better. Social distancing, much like vaccinations, works best when everyone who can does it.
Despite the risk, Gov. Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, has refused to fully close Florida's beaches. Sluder wouldn't have had to make an apology if spring break locations were closed.
Across the world, we're seeing the result of places not following the recommendations and closing—high risk places like the gym.
It says something when a teenage Soundcloud rapper is making more sense than a state governor.
Yes, things are dangerous out there, but that's no reason to panic. It is reason to take necessary precautions, though.
Wash your hands properly and often. Regularly sanitize high touch surfaces. Consult a doctor if you develop symptoms—more and more health facilities are handling patients via video conferencing.
And stay home or at least away from large gatherings like spring break on the beach.
