22 Apr AFTER COVID-19: BEYOND THE GLOOM, THERE IS HOPE
HOPE! In trying times, when one feels not in control of life, the one thing that keeps us going is hope. For some, this may just be a word, but for most, it is the reason they wake up every morning. Hope in a better future; hope in a better, easier life; hope for a pandemic-free world. Though we may not yet see the end result, but hope gives us something meaningful to look forward to, and that is all that matters.
The year 2021 has not been what many people had expected it would be. If you ask around, a majority of people had predicted that this year would be different from last year in terms of ‘normalcy.’ But what really is ‘normal?’ We have been confined to a certain way of living for a long time that we have settled for it to be normal, such that we get disoriented when forced to live differently.
As for me, I take normal to be what I make it. They say when life gives you lemons, make some deliciously cool lemonade. Well, I say that when coronavirus gives you a new way of life, take what you can and make the most of it. So really, normal is what you make it to be and how you want it to be. Defining your own normal, while observing the protocols laid out by the Ministry of Health, makes it easier for you to deal with the craziness going around, allowing you to focus on one thing, HOPE!
It would be wrong to ignore the trials facing most families in the country, especially with the second movement-restriction in play. It is disheartening to witness many industries being adversely affected by the containment measures laid out by the government and the many families that are affected by the same. These events call for the strengthening of humanity. Be kind to one another, extend love and grace to each one. Be the reason someone finds hope again and be the reason they look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Moreover, most people tend to fight their battles silently, however, these are not the times to stand alone. Speak up when it gets too tough and allow those close to you to help you ease the burden. We shall overcome these tests and we shall emerge stronger eventually.
Despite the challenges carried on to the new year from 2020, we can at least breathe easy because there is an end in sight. The coronavirus vaccine is finally here with us bringing with it a light at the end of the tunnel. For the first time in several months, there is hope for a COVID-19- free world and life. The vaccine, though not a cure, will help in curbing the spread as well as easing the burden on the health system that is much near crippled. The vaccine also gives us a fighting chance against the deadly virus. This, I must say, is a win for the health sector and for the populace at large. Vaccination is currently underway countrywide and is absolutely free in select hospitals. Be sure to check out your local hospitals for more information on the vaccine. More so, vaccination is at an individual’s discretion thus giving you the freedom of choice.
We all know of the saying “tough times don’t last but tough people do.” This should be among the quotes keeping you sane during these insane times. Often, uncertainty bears fear, which in turn gives a false perception of life as it is. In as much one may be fearful of tomorrow because of the uncertainty around it, one should not let the fear take over. “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more so we may fear less,” (Marie Curie). True to this quote, understanding is what gives us courage. In periods as indefinite as this, one can seek to understand the circumstances they are in so as to have a clear vision of the way forward. Fear only binds us but strength and courage take us through any trials and lets us emerge stronger. Remember, God does not give you a situation you cannot handle, therefore, whatever you are going through, you have been granted the wisdom and the grace to fight through it. All you need to do is have faith, find your will power and put it into action.
The current situation may be speculative but there is a hope for a brighter future. The roll-out of coronavirus vaccine is one sure way out of the pandemic. However, the journey still continues. So, before we get to our destination, let us hold each other’s hands, spread love and hope and have solid faith that better days are yet to come. We shall get through this, together.
We, at Nairobi Nanny, send out our warm hugs to all of you.
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