" COMMUNITY "

Every individual encounters a different manifestation of the virus. We all know that our public health care system is not doing well, so I was beyond thrilled when I was permitted for home isolation. However, my mild flu gradually manifested into a fever. One afternoon, my fever and shivering were so brutal that I felt like a little bird rattled inside a cage. My doctor was worried and suggested that I needed an intravenous injection. But who would come to administer IV to me? I was positive. I was clinging on to my faith and counting on the prayers of my family and friends. In those dark moments, it is quite easy to let your doubts and fear overpower you. I felt so alone at times. When in isolation, not many people can come and support you. You can either drown in self-pity or change your perspective. I decided to change my perspective.

In good times, pour into your small group or community. Value people and be

open to receive the help God brings your way. Yes, I was isolated, but I lacked nothing except for human touch and in-person fellowship. My family came up with a plan to synchronise our dinner and family prayers time via video call. I know it is not the same thing as sitting around the table and enjoying family meals, but it was a great plan under these circumstances. I know it sounds so privileged. There were people from church who sent fresh vegetables and poultry, and other eatables. Some of my friends would check on me via text and video message almost every day. I am grateful to my doctor, who cared for me. I am also grateful for my team member, who would bring me medicine and food any time of the day, even during a strict lockdown. Therefore, in good times invest time to touch people close to you because they will stand with you in your hour of crisis.

In the middle of my isolation, my doctor needed me to do some medical tests. I called my driver Bhai and gave him the option to say no because he was under no obligation to drive me around when I tested positive. He had the right to protect himself and his family. He blew me away when he did not even hesitate for a moment. He was so willing and happy to take me to my test. I saw an angel that day. I was so sure of rejection, but that gesture moved my family and me. So I am grateful to my chemist, my cousin, my driver Bhai, and my team, for the wonton soups and for bringing me medicine even when police stopped him during the lockdown. All I am saying is you got to have a community around you. Yes, your family is there, but your family is also going through tremendous stress and pressure. To battle Covid, yes, you need the best medicine and care, but most importantly, you need that small community who will stand with you in support and love you. When you are surrounded by such a loving and non-judgemental community, your body and soul begin to heal fast. I am so blessed to be surrounded by such a community, and I am definitely a better person because of it.

A question to ponder over:

Do you belong to such a non-judgemental and loving community, and how can you nurture it?