It has been more than 150 days since President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the nationwide lockdown on 26 March, and, for the majority of South Africans this has been a very tough and difficult time, as it has been more than 150 days without income, and for some, more than 150 days without any support or assistance from the government.
If we want to be honest with ourselves, we will have to admit that yes, the measures taken by our President and government must have played a part in the way this pandemic has played out, but, the harsh reality is also something that needs to be recognised. Because, with the lockdown, South Africans did not only have to deal with the stress of a pandemic, we also had to contend with the stress of unemployment, hunger and poverty, brought about by a national crisis that we might never recover from.
I have been one of the luckier ones during this time, as I was still able to work and earn a salary, but, there are so many people who were not. I am thinking about the gym owners, and those working in the tourism, events and entertainment industries, who have not been able to put food on the table. I am thinking about the business owners who were forced to close their doors more than 150 days ago, and will not be able to open them again, as they will not be able to recover from this huge financial blow.
But, then I also think about those who, despite being in a tight spot themselves, still try to reach out to the vulnerable in the community, and share the little they have, to try and help alleviate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. I take my hat off and salute them, as this seems to be the only way forward for us, to join hands and help each other.
And yes, this coronacoaster we are on can make us feel that our emotions are all over the place, and everything that is happening right now might overwhelm us, but, we must not forget that there is always hope; no matter how dark and depressing the outlook might be.
So, today I am challenging everyone to help make a difference in just one person’s life, no matter how small the gesture might be.
- Make a sandwich and give it to someone begging at an intersection.
- Take an old pair of shoes or a jacket (that is still in a good condition) and pass them on to someone in need.
- Donate to a charity that helps feed our nation (start with a soup kitchen in your local community or church).
- Donate to a freelancer. Many dancers, actors, event managers, the tourism sector, journalists (to name a few) have not been paid in almost 150 days, or helped by the government either. If you can spare something, this might make a difference to their entire lives.
- Phone someone who you know is going through a tough time; a simple hello can lead to a million things.
- If you know someone who has their own small business, be it a gym owner, photographer, sign-writer or baker, make sure you give them a glowing recommendation on the various social media platforms that are available.
And last but not least, always be kind, because you never know what battle your fellow South African is fighting.
Until next week, stay safe and look out for each other …
