I don’t know if I will still be alive when you read this.

The coronavirus, COVID-19, is running rampant. I’m diabetic and therefore in one of the groups that could be more susceptible to the virus. Add to this that my job is considered essential — the reporting and dissemination of news — and I can’t completely stay home.

I’m not afraid. I just have to be careful.

I walk to the office — it’s not far — and many times I have almost been struck in the crosswalk by a vehicle whose driver somehow doesn’t see my large frame or the giant octagonal red sign that suggests they stop before proceeding. I’m not exaggerating. It’s happened a lot.

I’m not afraid to cross the street. I just have to be careful.

A few nights ago, lightning was popping all around my apartment building and thunder was booming. I am sometimes out in the storms. Lightning could strike me.

I’m not afraid, but it’s a possibility.

I have been involved in several accidents, automotive and otherwise, that could have ended much differently. I have been hospitalized in situations where I might have died.

My life is in God’s hands. I won’t die a moment before or after he permits it.

But I am not going to swim with crocodiles or hippos. I’d probably drown before they got to me anyway.

I’m not going to play chicken with a locomotive. I’m not going to light a match while pumping gas or take a bath with a plugged-in toaster.

I’m not about to be intentionally stupid to try to cheat death. I’m unintentionally stupid often enough. Why help things along?

I’m also going to protect myself as much and as well as I am able while this current global pandemic is underway. It’s smart.

I don’t care if you think it’s all a hoax, a conspiracy, not worth your while or that I look stupid wearing a face mask. If you don’t take it seriously, don’t interfere with others who do. What if the situation was reversed?

While getting essentials from a grocery store a couple of days ago, I saw a couple with their children all in the store, no one with a mask, not keeping even a respectful distance from anyone else, talking about going straight from there to visit Grandma. The whole family is unnecessarily exposing themselves, others and poor Grandma to likely infection, severe illness and possible loss of life.

For the greater good, for your sake and others’, take this seriously. Even if others don’t.

We don’t have to be afraid.

We just have to be careful.

Brett Campbell can be reached at brett.campbell@dailyleader.com.