The popular adage of “It is better to give than to receive” is fully manifested in this once-in-a-century pandemic. Thousands of COVID-19 cases created strain in our health system, especially in aged care and hospitals throughout the country.
Health workers do not have a choice but to work double shifts. They are overworked and exhausted, yet they continue to care for people affected by COVID. Deep in their hearts, they found joy in serving the sick and the most vulnerable people in our society. However, they always felt the pain each time, holding the hands of a dying patient and seeing tears flowing down their face and longing to be near their loved ones. It is such a sorrowful scenario to be witnessed by anyone.
My young niece, who recently graduated and now works as a nurse in one of the hospitals in Australia, is the paradigm of how young people sacrifice enjoying the prime of their youth. They found themselves in a difficult situation witnessing the havoc of this pandemic it had created. There are times when my niece comes home with tears in her eyes, lamenting of watching her patient gasping for breath, and yet she can not do anything more. Giving comforting words and remaining by their bedside up to their last breath is the only thing she can offer.
Most nurses experiencing similar situations will be affected mentally, emotionally, and physically. I told my niece to remain strong and focused. Even with the grim situation she encounters daily, my niece can take comfort from the fact that she can make a difference. It opened her eyes and made her realise the importance of her job as a nurse.
It is always enthralling to hear stories of our health workers’ bravery, dedication, and selfless devotion to caring for the sick.
This pandemic indeed brings out the best in us, but unfortunately, it also highlighted the ugly side of us. Some people will make money out of the misery of others. Some retailers will take advantage of selling RATs (Rapid Antigen Test) at an exorbitant price that is out of reach for many. So sad that this is happening in Australia.
Another archetype of how people will display their passion and love of giving are the soldiers, missionaries, charity workers, and the list can go on and on. Soldiers take pride in serving the country; the missionaries are happy to spread the words of God; the charity workers find fulfilment in helping the needy and the poor. At times, all of them feel the pain of being away from their loved ones, sacrificing their time, and risking their lives doing the jobs they are passionate about. Not to forget those parents who will give everything they can to give their children the best care and education. When children decide to leave, they find themselves empty nester. The pain of being alone is too much to bear, especially if their children had forgotten them.
We should always be prepared to accept the consequences of our love and passion for giving and the pain of loving. Indeed, these are the harsh realities of life.
Excerpt from my book Reflective Contemplations
Angels do not need wings
You can be an angel
By reaching and helping others
Each one of us can make a difference
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