As we face the double pandemic : COVID-19 and the fear and anxiety associated with it-cutting across developing - developed world, educated illiterate, rural - urban, not to talk about the different socio-economic Strata to name a few. In all likely food what may be been Savior is social distancing or is it physical distancing. In times of distress we yearn to cling to each other and look for love and care, we like to share our stories in example, someone near and dear is beginning to show symptoms of COVID-19 or are fears - I have grandparents who are old and frail, but they had brought me up, my father is diabetic and hypertensive.
I am living near the Red Zone. At such times when looks for a soft, warm touch, you long for someone to reach out to you where you can express your fears without any inhibitions. You have the confidence that they will not label you a 'nerd' or 'a coward'. However, your cultural imprints flare up : "You will disappoint these folks. Be a good boy. Make everyone happy." Or "Man up. Is the little mamma's boy just two tired." Experience in behavioral science says as you put a bold front, that is hide your feelings instead of expressing them, the stress levels go up. Is an emotional connect the need of the hour.
Certain other stories stand out. Man is essentially a social being. We can, we are happier to be dinning alone where we are surrounded by other people - even if they are strangers. We also like to connect to a larger group, like you are an athlete, or I am a Mental Health worker. We engage in so many activities' art, music, gaming education whilst maintaining a physical distance. We may do things paralleling or alongside - jogging, singing etc. Academy Awardee, Mr. Vinod Kumar Shula says "Writing for me is talking with people. Reading is about knowledge them. " Kerala government desired something interesting; caring umbrellas. Your umbrella must not touch other person's umbrella 3 feet distance is maintaining but social and emotional reach out remains.
Neuroscientist further go or to say if we make face-to-face/eye contact is like 'vitamin' for our mental health, it boosts feelings of well-being and reduces stress and anxiety.
The Corona pandemic is a temporary phase, it came like water and hopefully will go like wind. We observe distancing while remaining connected emotionally through so many ways - your electronic and digital platforms. It's all time to revive letter writing, journaling and exploring your other hidden talents.
Addressing the needs of others : giving the affected person an ear - A doctor attending to covid patients says he is concerned about his family, as he has a sister who is pregnant. Give a helping hand to those who need from a physical distance, you may perform for them virtually, you may donate or whatever service you can do in your capacity. It will not only help them, but will help you more. You are being a part of the movement and your contribution shall remain unparalleled.
Steven Pinker says we have the brains to find solutions. Within no time, the answer shall flow like a stream. Till when we maintain a physical distance so that we resume our old social habits, but our hearts continue to beat for each other.
"We do not need magic to transform our world. We carry all the power we need inside ourselves already. "
"By despising all that has preceded us, we teach others to despise ourselves. "
"Commonsense in an uncommon degree is what the world call wisdom."
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