Tweni Talk: Lockdown brings out best and worst in people
No one should judge others in this time of need as we do not know their circumstances.
Lockdown has been a great time for reflection and it has brought out the best and the worst in some people.
Speaking about the TCW (Tweni Crime Watch or Tweni Community Watch) in particular, I have noticed a shift in the emotional state of many members.
ALSO READ: Food donations are desperately needed
On the WhatsApp groups, in the beginning it was as if we were all going on an adventure of sorts, with a bit of in trepidation.
There was an attitude of ‘we are all in this together so let’s do the best we can to help each other through this’.
Jokes and games were shared, plus offers of assistance, lockdown recipes and much camaraderie.
Into week three and four, the mask has slipped.
It is getting tougher and, on some WhatsApp groups, the bickering has begun, with a lack of respect for the rules evident.
I am sure it is the same everywhere.
Walkers are walking, scavengers are scavenging on bin days. Beggars are going gate to gate. What to do?
Jail cells are filled to capacity. The people who are staying at home are greatly affronted by the lack of discipline and respect from some of the community.
Saps and law enforcement are stretched thin on the ground.
Policing forum members are not allowed to do patrols in the suburbs.
Crime appears to be on the increase in some suburbs while others are reporting absolutely zero cases.
Security companies cannot make arrests unless the perpetrators are caught in the client’s yard. Law abiding citizens feel doubly trapped.
On a more cheerful note, thank you to all the wonderful women still sewing cloth masks, you are simply amazing,
I have to commend all the people who are trying to ease the plight of the poor.
Two organisations I know of personally who have assisted on the coast are the Port Shepstone Islamic Welfare Trust (PSIWT) and the Living Word Hibiscus Church.
Both of these organisations give to all races irrespective of their religions.
No one should judge others in this time of need as we do not know their circumstances.
If anyone wants to get involved or feel that they can assist in anyway please make contact.
Stay safe, be positive, be proactive rather than reactive, and reach out if you feel the need, we are not in this alone.
All news to Leila.
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