A cautious mindset that nurtures kindness

In the last couple of weeks, I have not touched on topics related to the pandemic. It is probably because we have succeeded in flattening the curve. Particularly in Cebu City, we have learned our lessons. City officials are now more measured in their messaging and are doing the right things. The people too are following public health measures like wearing of masks and physical distancing.

I think the best part about the last two months in our battle against the spread of COVID-19 is that we have proven that we are capable of winning this fight. We have gained some measure of confidence in this battle, and we have also lessened the uncertainty that hounded us in the early months.

I’ve heard good things about the behavior of the people outdoors in the city. Everyone is wearing a mask and face shield, and observing physical distancing for the most part. Unfortunately, this is not the same behavior that is observed in the towns of Cebu province. That is according to my source who is now based in a southern town.

A medical expert, in fact, has sounded the alarm. In a report by The FREEMAN this weekend, Dr. Peter Mancao, spokesperson of the Cebu Medical Society, warned that Cebu province may see a surge in COVID-19 cases “given that many are not observing the proper health protocols.” Dr. Mancao said he has noticed that many people are not wearing masks nor observing the social distancing protocol.

According to the report, Dr. Mancao was one of those who disclosed the real picture of Cebu City’s hospitals a few months ago as overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases amid the assurances of local officials that the pandemic was under control.

“Now, Mancao is sending a warning to residents of different LGUs in the province, saying just because the entire Cebu has already been placed under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) does not mean Cebuanos should let their guards down,” wrote Caecent No-ot Magsumbol of The FREEMAN.

I have not yet resumed my activities outside. I intend to wait for another month or two after the declaration of the modified general community quarantine, before even deciding whether it is already safe to step outside and do transactions under the new normal health protocols.

In the past weeks, there were some court hearings scheduled in-court, and no longer through videoconferencing. I have asked my younger colleagues in the law office if they could make a special appearance in those hearings on my behalf as counsel for our client. But they told me that they too have decided to stay at home for the time being.

I guess we have reframed our outlook to what once were regarded as routine work-related activities. If a task can be performed or achieved online without the risk of exposing ourselves to the germs, no matter how challenging the online alternative may be, then it should be done online. If it is not possible online or outdoors where there is fresh air circulation and physical distancing, then perhaps it can be postponed to some proper time in the future. We are still very much in the midst of a pandemic.

And it is not only activities that can be deferred. The pandemic is also not a time for any kind of drama. Defer the hate, and if you can avoid conflict with others, avoid it. Don’t be too hard on yourself and others. Without foregoing quality and accountability, this pandemic is a time for us to treat others with kindness and compassion.