CORONAVIRUS CRISIS BRINGS A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE

Coronavirus crisis brings a new perspective on life

We began 2020 with high aspirations and great expectations, but as someone wisely said, “expect the unexpected!” Our vision for the year 2020 has now been overpowered by discussions on the coronavirus pandemic. 

The coronavirus outbreak has caused a state of emergency, and many public and school closures in most provinces in Canada and globally. It has resulted in a lot of anxiety and insecurity among us, leading to massive grocery stocking within the households.

My thoughts are especially with the elderly and the other sections of our most vulnerable populations, who are most at risk during this crisis. My empathies are with the community members on the hardships arising due to reduced public services. 

Canadian federal and provincial political systems have displayed a remarkable collaboration in coming up with the most evidence-based solutions to combat COVID-19 and ensure collective well-being.

Looking through an optimistic lens, coronavirus has caused social distancing, but has also brought communities closer and made their bonds stronger. It is great to see how people have come up with new greeting etiquettes — there are air-fives, elbow-bumps and large-scale adoption of the South Asian greeting of Namaste. I have also heard so many heart-touching stories from people who chose to share groceries and household supplies with others.

Communities can follow precautions with basic steps in environmental cleaning by routine wiping of highly-touched surfaces and regularly-used objects like phones, switchboards and door handles, and using disinfectant and alcohol-based cleaners.

Healthy eating habits and making nutritious choices will also help boost our immune system. Be mindful of the greater common good: if we notice symptoms of coronavirus, we should go into quarantine or self-isolation. 

The panic is leading to inappropriate and discriminatory comments about some of our community members and Ontarians. While it is only natural for us to be concerned about our safety, it is important we should not lose sight of what makes our community great: our diversity. We must remain united in our collective efforts to keep each other safe. 

Coronavirus is a virus and not a binding punishment. It will go one day, but the kind acts of humanity will remain with us forever. 

Please take care and be well! We will get through this together and hopefully, will emerge with a new perspective on life.