THERE are so many interesting stories derived from the pandemic and there are diverse stories about people owing to the pandemic.
Let’s face it, we’re all affected by this health crisis of epic proportion.
We hear heartbreaking stories of the ordeals of Locally-Stranded Individuals and Returning Overseas Filipinos, as well as stories of first responders, healthcare workers, the elderly, the women and children, our friends’ and their friends’ stories, and even our very own family’s stories.
Most of the stories make us sad. Some enable us to breathe a sigh of relief. Still others gladden our hearts. Totally human.
A story always has an effect on the audience.
This pandemic has reduced us to society’s least common denominator: our very own humanity and mortality. There’s no denying the fact that we’re confronted by our own mortality.
Of course in all these stories, we hear so many voices. The voice of critics, the loudest; the voice of reason; the voice of desperation, disdain, anger, frustration, exasperation, and then encouragement and hope.
These voices come from different sectors of society, even from those who used to be apathetic, nonchalant, lackadaisical, and laissez faire.
I wonder which voice you belong to. You should know that by now.
As a writer, I have given voice to my doctor- and nurse-friends and cousins, most of whom are my contemporary (childhood, high school, and college friends) and who are all based abroad by publishing their COVID-19 stories.
It was an honor for me to be trusted with their stories. I could only commend their courage, professionalism, and faith. Truly admirable.
But there are also other voices wanting to be heard. All these voices have formed a discordant chorus that simply echoes the situation we find ourselves in. The voices are chaotic, lacking rhythm. But perhaps if we listen intently and tune out everything else, we can hear a glint of harmony. It’s possible.
But what are you actually communicating by using your voice? Fear of death; anxiety over possible infection; government’s handling or mishandling of the health crisis – depending on which side of the fence you are sitting; your confusion, your lack of resources, hunger, criminality, anarchy, injustice or all of the above?
Times like this, it’s best to take stock of our good old-fashioned values and revisit our respective life journeys. Remember who we depend on. Remember who we trust. We need to be reminded that we have a strong and infallible anchor.
To be able to use our voices wisely and optimally, we need to ask ourselves these crucial questions: What have I accomplished up to this point in my life journey? What have I contributed to society thus far? What can I still do to serve my fellowmen especially the least of my brothers and sisters?
I don’t know about you but I don’t want to contribute to the lack of rhythm. I want to be part of the harmony.
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June has finally come to a close. I wish to thank all those who have greeted me on my n irthday and wished me well. It’s genuinely appreciated.
Indeed the internet has shrunk the world smaller. Now it’s so easy to connect and reconnect with friends and acquaintances we haven’t seen in ages.
Of course, there’s a downside, too. But let’s let leave that for another column.
For now, let’s just celebrate life and our accomplishments amidst this pandemic.
Let’s carry on and let God lead the way.
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Huge thanks to our listeners in “Kwentas Klaras” over radio station DYTR – Ang Tingog sa Bohol!
Thank you for all your feedback and messages.
We hope to be able to communicate your voice and contribute to the harmony and rhythm of a new reality.
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Food for Thought
Amidst the discordant chorus, life is good. Let’s proceed forth with resolve and a liberal amount of kindness, compassion, and humanity.
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For comments, you may reach the writer at belca.87@gmail.com./PN
