(This post is part of the A to Z Challenge. I am writing this month on activities that keep me refreshed during these depressing days. It's Day 11 today.)
One big leveller in the modern age was technology. There is now one more: novel coronavirus-caused COVID-19. Making no discrimination, it has scared everyone and driven them all indoors.
However, its effect on the haves and the have-nots isn't the same. People who depend on their daily wages and those who don't have a permanent job are among the hardest-hit. Apart from them, elders and the sick are also badly affected. The least we can all do is to reach out them in whatever way possible to mitigate their suffering.
In our apartment complex, the resident association has formed two groups of volunteers. One, to help out the senior citizens amongst us who might need some essentials, like medicines or food items. The other group gathers funds to ease the financial burden of the housekeeping staff and domestic help, who would be finding it difficult to make ends meet.
Though we often tend to have a very cynical view of the world around us, the fact is that in this time of crisis, there are many others too -- as individuals and organisations -- reaching out to people who are in need of help. In many cities, including Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram, the police are providing food to the homeless on the streets and for the people who have been forcibly confined to shelters.
As the famous quote of Aesop goes: "The level of our success is limited only by our imagination and no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted."
Update on April 22
An article on the efforts being made by some of the residents referred to above was carried in Deccan Herald newspaper today.
One big leveller in the modern age was technology. There is now one more: novel coronavirus-caused COVID-19. Making no discrimination, it has scared everyone and driven them all indoors.However, its effect on the haves and the have-nots isn't the same. People who depend on their daily wages and those who don't have a permanent job are among the hardest-hit. Apart from them, elders and the sick are also badly affected. The least we can all do is to reach out them in whatever way possible to mitigate their suffering.
In our apartment complex, the resident association has formed two groups of volunteers. One, to help out the senior citizens amongst us who might need some essentials, like medicines or food items. The other group gathers funds to ease the financial burden of the housekeeping staff and domestic help, who would be finding it difficult to make ends meet.
Though we often tend to have a very cynical view of the world around us, the fact is that in this time of crisis, there are many others too -- as individuals and organisations -- reaching out to people who are in need of help. In many cities, including Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram, the police are providing food to the homeless on the streets and for the people who have been forcibly confined to shelters.
As the famous quote of Aesop goes: "The level of our success is limited only by our imagination and no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted."
Update on April 22
An article on the efforts being made by some of the residents referred to above was carried in Deccan Herald newspaper today.
Hari Om
ReplyDeleteTruth! Thank you for this - your words carry kindness and that counts too! YAM xx
Hi Yamini - Thank you.
DeleteYour apartment complex volunteers are doing an admirable service for those in need.
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to hear of communities pulling together.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree. Similarly- the monthly wages of maids should be paid. They had to stay home due to lockdown- would be good if we don't cut their pays for not working.
ReplyDeleteHi Vyoma - Absolutely. We have done that. And as far as I know, a lot of other people are also doing it.
DeleteSuch a wonderful reminder of things we can do from the confinement of our homes. Kindness is always possible.
ReplyDeleteGood to hear about the efforts your neighbours are involved in.
Thank you for this.
Hi Arti - We are trying to do whatever we can. Thanks.
DeleteThank you for sharing this bright spot. We live in a great community, I'm happy to say. Folks are calm and courteous, while my husband and I support some local restaurants by purchasing food for delivery. Take care.
ReplyDeleteHi Darla - Very glad to hear that. They go a long way. Take care.
DeleteIt is definitely reassuring to hear about the good works people are doing during these times.
ReplyDeleteIn these testing times, it is so wonderful to see that there are people who are reaching out with a helping hand.It is heartwarming to read about messages of hope and solidarity which are springing up in unusual places.
ReplyDeleteHi Shilpa - Yes, indeed. That's the least we can do in these difficult times.
DeleteThank you for sharing this. Many blessings on you and your groups at your complex.
ReplyDeleteHi Jade - Thank you.
DeleteYes, this is a great time to learn a language. I wanted to learn Kannada as I stay in Karnataka, but between my job and blogging and household chores, I don't even have the time to sleep my normal quota. Will start after the a2z frenzy is over.
ReplyDeleteHi Sinjana - Yes, you must. Just put in like some 10 or 15 a day.
DeleteIt's very heartening to see how we have come together to help others as best we can. Well done to the people in your building.
ReplyDeleteHi Suzy - Thank you.
DeleteIt's touching to see how kind and generous most people are. With jobs and wages disappearing at an alarming rate, extending a helping hand can make the difference between giving up and barreling on. Thanks for giving folks, especially those in need, a reason to choose the latter.
ReplyDeleteIts nice to hear that your apartment volunteers have taken the initiative, especially during this time it makes a huge difference. They are lights shining in darkness.
ReplyDeleteWonderful initiative - great post for #WATWB, thanks ..
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this!
ReplyDelete