Coping

Just when we concluded that 2020 was a horrendous year, 2021 moves in and seems to be equally bad or worse. Many are suffering from depression owing to what is happening around them. Our neighbouring country is crippled with the virus; horrific scenes are seen by all of us who watch the news channels; and international newspapers keep updating us of all the horrific happenings there, which is quite depressing. It is no better over here where the virus has spread in unimaginable proportions. People do not know how to cope with all of this. The daily worker, the majority who travel by public transport and work in enclosed environments, are the victims of this contagious virus. To top it all is the recent announcement of the presence of carcinogenic aflatoxin in both local and imported coconut oil that we have been happily using for many years.  Now, we must stress on the effect this will have on us users.   

Getting the second jab of the vaccine has become another story.  Our trust will have to be in a higher power out there making it happen.  Unhappiness is all over other than among a small community who seem to have plenty of money and splash it around. The only way to cope with all of this is to lower one’s expectations, assist people as much as one can, take responsibility for oneself, engage in problem solving when possible, maintain emotional supportive relationships with family or friends and maintain emotional composure. Always remember that it may be easier for us whilst the majority are struggling and may not have any coping mechanisms.

On another note, I salute Ms. Kumudini David who contracted the virus and opted to move into a government quarantine centre.  Kumudini, who has a positive attitude, whilst coping with the virus has managed to sort out many issues at the centre she is quarantining in via social media. I sincerely hope that many who are reading her updates on social media will follow suit and extend their help towards these centres. Very few among us are exceptional like Ms David.  She spoke out and as a result received tremendous support from many companies and her friends. Kumudini has proven that humanity still exists amongst us and is incredibly grateful for all the support she has received.

Stay safe and sane.  It is the best we can do to cope with all of what is going on around us. Prayers seem to be not heard. Perhaps we need to change our lifestyles and give way for the prayers to be heard.

• The daily worker, the majority who travel by public transport and work in enclosed environments, are the main victims of this contagious virus.