Being socially distant
Health experts around the world have said that the best way to cut the transmission of COVID-19 is to implement social distancing; being a meter apart from one another and avoiding congregating. This is the sole reason why churches and other religious groups have cancelled services. Classes have been suspended and employees are being advised to work from home. The best way is to stay at home or else you will be forced to stay in the hospital.
It’s almost been a week since the start of the general community quarantine, and being socially distant is hard to do. Our public transport system that has lessened also in the days couldn’t possibly adopt this system. Imagine, there are only limited jeepneys and buses plying the streets. A wise driver who would think of gaining money and ferrying passengers to make his vehicle full. That way, it is a win/win for both the commuters and the driver. Other places are also too hard to avoid social distancing - supermarkets, terminals, and the like.
But I like social distancing. It gives me a reason to be away from people for a time. Sometimes I feel like I need this, to be distant is to have "me" time. It would give me a reason to be unashamed that I like to be alone at times. Although I honestly miss the company of my friends who are also enjoying the community quarantine in the comfort of their own homes, nothing beats knowing yourself more by being alone. But while I am too engrossed at the benefits that this quarantine is giving me, I have neglected several sectors in our society today that are mostly affected by the situation.
I am talking about those who do not have access to disinfectants, alcohol, and all the other things needed to fight off COVID-19. There are still those who risk their lives daily despite the exposure to the virus because they are working on a daily basis which means “no work, no pay”. Others rely on the purchasing power of the public for them to thrive. Now we see that malls are closed, as well as spas and other areas that could possibly gather a lot of people. How will they survive now? When provisions have not yet been given because again, we are just on a community quarantine.
Although some companies have expressed their intent to give their wages and 13th month pay, I doubt if it will be enough to cover for the time being. Experts have expressed their fear that this pandemic could go on longer than the time allotted by authorities on the quarantine. Our lives will not be normal for a time which will be difficult to adjust to. By now, despite being socially distant, we have to work hand in hand.
I guess what we can do now is to cooperate, despite the disruption of the way we are living. I know it is a hassle, but we can get through this.
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