When in a crisis
When we are in some especially difficult situation like what we are having nowadays with the coronavirus pandemic, we should band together, close ranks, and help one another any way we can.
Everyone, from those in position of government to the lowest citizen of the community, should care for one another. Our differences and conflicts in some issues should take a backseat, at least temporarily. They can be attended to at some other time. Like in the hospitals when there are just too many patients seeking attention and admission, we have to do some triage.
When our very own life and the survival of our society are under threat, let’s work together to tackle the problem together, and avoid bickering, complaining, fault-finding and the other negative activities.
If we notice certain aspects of the problem to be disregarded or are given inadequate attention, then let’s bring them to the proper authorities. But this should be done always in the proper tone, with great delicacy albeit with utter clarity, especially when the matter involved is considered urgent.
But if we ourselves can already do something about these aspects of the problem, then let’s do it ourselves without bothering others or the higher entities in society. It’s part of the principle of subsidiarity that should govern our social, collective life. The other two are those of the common good and solidarity. It would be good if we once again review these social principles.
When our government orders some drastic measures like lockdown or quarantine, etc., to tackle the coronavirus problem, we have to presume things are studied well and that these extreme measures are resorted to with prudence to avoid a greater harm and damage to the people and society.
I know that some of us may feel that such measures are an overreaction, and that they fail to consider the unpleasant implications on some sectors of our society. Truth is they are indeed a bitter pill to take. No question about that.
But if we consider what’s happening in other countries facing the same problem and what they did to tackle it, then we should understand why such measures have to be taken.
Yes, no doubt everyone suffers, though in different ways and in different degrees. That consequence cannot be helped. That is just part of our human condition here on earth, whether we are in good times or in bad.
That is why we should just help one another. Those who are stronger among us, better positioned, favored, or endowed should give a helping hand to those who are weaker and less fortunate. This is where the social principles of the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity should get into action. This crisis can be a wonderful occasion to find new and creative ways to help one another.
Besides, if we are genuine Christians, we already know and are assured that everything will always work out for the good. We already know that whatever suffering we undergo here can have positive, constructive, and salvific effects on us. Christ takes care of everything. What we cannot do, he can. What is impossible to us is always possible to him.
So, we shouldn’t worry too much and waste our time fighting each other over perceived inadequacies, missteps, and mistakes. Let’s just be sport about everything. We cannot avoid some mistakes and setbacks. But these should not stop us from moving on.
Instead of focusing on the mistakes and complaining, let’s find solutions and offer help. The very least we can do is to pray and offer sacrifices.
- Latest
