DESPITE the disruption caused by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), some good things may still emerge from it.
First, people learned to wear protective masks in the community. The motivation for some may not be to protect others. At least, the desire to protect oneself has the effect of protecting others, too.
Second, people also learned to wash their hands, even at least with alcohol. Some use alcohol too, before entering a grocery store to ensure no transmission will happen simply by holding merchandise displayed on shelves. Some neighborhood merchandisers provide soap and water for washing, which is better than alcohol. Unfortunately, some grocers ignore any precautions. A shopper will have no idea how many hands have touched an item he or she brings to the counter.
Third, the generosity of people was challenged and some responded extraordinarily. Members of the community who have the financial and logistical means to help others in need took the cue and did help out.
Fourth, on the social plane, families were given the time to be with each other at home, knowing each other better than before. The busy parents must be with their children under the same roof most of the day. Unfortunately, those who are in the wrong place at the wrong time cannot go back to their family because of the lockdown.
Fifth, on the political plane, voters will come to know their leaders for decisiveness, foresight, informational adeptness and political will. Woe to those whose leaders are indecisive, lack foresight, are grossly uninformed and are politically fearful.
Sixth, on the spiritual plane, even atheists will have to face the fact that their lives are not in their total control. For believers, the peace flowing from one’s faith in God’s faithfulness and providence cannot be shaken even by the threat to life or even death from unseen enemies.
Seventh, dear readers, you can add an item to this list, too. We can just hope and pray that these good things last beyond this Covid-19 crisis and the bad be transformed at least into good.