Love and kindness needed during pandemic
Although the world has drastically changed in the past 10 months, there’s some things concerning me more than the virus itself.
Some people may have read the quote circulating, “we are not all in the same boat, we are in the same storm, some have yachts, some have canoes and some are drowning.”
Each person is managing this differently. Some have completely lost their livelihoods, jobs, and all connection to others. Some still have work, a paycheque and a large family to connect with daily.
Some are physically not able to wear a mask and are now facing daily bullying from this. Often these people already face anxiety or other serious health problems without the confrontation of having to explain their situation when entering a grocery store to purchase simple necessities. Once being allowed to enter they then may endure dirty looks or name calling.
As a fit and healthy person who has discovered panic attacks come on fairly quickly after putting on a mask, I have experienced this first hand.
A month ago, masks were not mandatory and I was able to walk into a store with the right to breathe and smile at others. Things have drastically changed and I’m feeling this weighing on my mental health. I know I am not the only one…
I ask store managers/owners and employees to familiarize yourselves with the rules on this and for other shoppers to please show some compassion for the ones you see unmasked as it may not be their choice.
The definition of health is to be free from illness and injury. This includes many things other than COVID.
This pandemic is becoming more of a mental health crisis lately. Let’s keep each other thriving with love and kindness. Give someone a compliment, offer to pay for someone’s groceries, smile at a child. It’s the little things that count right now.
In the words of John Lennon:
“A very merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let’s hope it’s a good one
Without any fear”
Scarlett Feltrin
Lake Cowichan
