I tried to check in with some old tech friends about what’s happening, and so far it’s been, “My job’s secure, I bought all this new stuff to keep me entertained, I don’t see what the big deal is.”

It reminded me of conversations I’d try to have about diversity and inclusion.

It’s not for me to judge (though not doing so is my lifetime learning assignment). And I know for some it’s coping or denial.

But I will keep hoping that those of us in more comfortable situations see this global suffering as an invitation to expand our circle of compassion.

And it’s no coincidence that it reminded me of D & I conversations because it *is* one.

- Many groups most affected by the virus are also those marginalized in tech.

- Underdeveloped empathy is one reason teams aren’t inclusive.

Etc.

I want to clarify, too, that taking care of your own needs like job security and even entertainment is valid and important. What I found sad was stopping there and concluding that this isn’t a big deal, especially if we are in a position to help those who are struggling.