The viral sorrow of our times
We have been in the eye of the storm for over a year now and with the latest observation of our surroundings, the winds of this storm have gathered new momentum. Things do not seem good out there, but what’s sending people in the panic overdrive is that something troubling which was happening out there, is now happening in their neighborhood. We’re reaching a point where everybody has lost someone they know and care about. Numbers matter, they help put things in a definitive state and prove useful for analysis and predictions. They do have a downside though, with numbers and data, one inevitably begins comparisons: how bad was the last flu, the one in 1918 or the bubonic plague? Some go to the extent of accounting these numbers against the world wars or regime-induced liquidations. In the pursuit of obtaining some statistically engaging output, certain things should not be missed: inconsolable grief, incessant tears, veiled wails, and sheer helplessness, for these emotional states are closing in on everybody gradually. No range of numbers and data can help subside the pain and anxiety that we’re doomed to right now. As there is always a political side to any issue, it’d be best to avoid it altogether as there can be no useful conclusion on that front. This piece of writing is not a wake-up call, not intended to inculcate awareness or disseminate the latest information. This is just to reinvigorate the feeling that whatever happening beyond the boundaries of our homes and apartments is very real, the fragility of the system be it administrative or healthcare is bare in all its glory, the gap between haves and have-nots is widening and not just economically but at the level of who gets to live and who is left to die. If you’re scared presently seeing the news or unearthing info by yourself, know that your fear is what is going to save you in the end. Your lack of courage and not being heroic is possibly the best defense that can be put up right now. This is pleaded whenever you step out, interact and step back in.
It would be imprudent to blather about symptoms, basic protocols, and the need for masks as no one is unaware of all this. What’s important is to know that we’re at a tipping point of every man for himself and the worst thing that would come out of it wouldn’t be decreased healthcare or stringent curfews, it’d be a breakdown of supplies, inflation going through the roof (4.17% wholesale inflation in February scaled to 7.39% in March) and possible denial of essential services. Although this scenario is just based on a hunch, it is still probable judging by the recent trends. The only logical way forward can be is to get ahead of the curve which in its entirety is to make sure you and your loved ones are staying alive. Breaking the chain of transmission. containing the spread and boosting immune system has to be done in the view of the bigger picture: roughly 2000 families are being shattered beyond repair on a daily basis right now (just in India), they would probably do anything to go back in time and do few things differently, but fate hasn’t been kind with them. Pay heed to the fires from those funeral grounds, every new rising flame, each new wood piece being stacked is asking you silently not to end up there. If you’re doing well right now, be grateful as much as you’re being careful.
No one knows what the end result would be, will we learn something from our collective miseries or simply move on. The road ahead is tough, hope short-lived and hardships on a rise, but come what may ‘Do not go gentle into that good night’. Be fearful, be careful and keep the numbers low.
