Dear Editor,
We have been witnessing effects of COVID infection throughout the world. No country, no city, no suburbs is free of this virus. Disheartening and horrific scenes of people dying of virus is new normal for countries where the mutated virus has ravaged the populace. Lockdowns have caused businesses to go bankrupt and adversely many have lost jobs pushing them to poverty and indebtedness. Scenes and stories of horror will haunt us and leave an indelible mark in our human history. Many children are orphaned, many parents had to bury their own children, many children had to witness cremation of their parents, burial grounds and crematoriums filled beyond its capacity, Frontline workers have lost their lives on the job, dead bodies are being thrown in the river without any dignity and list can go on. COVID has, is and will leave long-lasting impact among the people. Most people have either been infected or have felt the impact by losing loved ones or losing jobs and such. COVID has caused unbearable physical pain among the peoples who are infected. But more importantly, the psychological pain will linger for a long time and its healing process will need time. People who have lost their dear ones have to live with the void that unexpected Covid-19 death has caused. COVID is spreading rapidly, we doesn’t have time to grieve our loss because people have to hustle to remain safe. Psychological repercussions of COVID will continue for a long time and there needs to be a time for healing and grieving. Families that were destroyed by COVID will need to support each other and remain united so that healing can happen. As communities, we have to find ways and means to support affected families. Our humanity is on the test now and will be tested when COVID is over and people are grieving for their loss. Deep-seated fear and anxiety among people will be a norm, however, we can assist each other in overcoming the fear and anxiety.
Sincerely,
Jerri Dias
