We are now at our week three of quarantine and, to be honest, worry has started creeping in. When the Luzonwide Enhanced Community Quarantine was announced, it was only scheduled for a 30-day duration. While it would have been pleasant news we are finally nearing its end, sadly it’s not. It’s more worrisome, especially with the rising cases of Covid-19 positives.

We still have no clue how many confirmed Covid positives are out there. In addition, there are also unknown asymptomatic cases. Mass testing hasn’t even started yet too. It’s uncertain whether going out of the house for school or work is guaranteed safe…. praise God for light-heartening messages from a friend to ease a weary heart.

That Random “how are you?”

Mary Grace was a former student volunteer for a Christian organization I’m affiliated with. It’s been a while since we last spoke until earlier this evening. As I distract myself from all the worries with calligraphy, I received a message from her asking me how I was.

In these trying times, a simple “hi”, “hello”, and “how are you?” to someone is an act of kindness. Mary Grace’s message comforted me. It may have been a question yet knowing someone out there remembered and wanted to check on me touched my heart. After replying to her message, she answered with an offer to assist me if I do need one (considering I walk with crutches).

Our chat exchanges may have been simple yet they made me feel less worried. It reminded me of one fact — the fear we feel can only be conquered with love.

Chatting Kindness

The world is currently filled with anxiety. Some have loved ones who are sick, some have loved ones on the frontlines, and some just desire their family to survive the effect of this pandemic. Many Filipinos have not been able to work because of it and they are mostly daily-wage earners… And while they may want to go back to work, there’s also the fact the quarantine might extend to ensure we are all safe from Covid-19…

We are all fighting the same unseen enemy — both the virus and fear– yet there is the call to unite and cooperate, as well as forward kindness, especially one that is expressed online. Whether it’s a call, a text message, or a simple comment, as long as it is filled with words of encouragement, love, and kindness, it goes a long way.

Send a random Hello to someone now.
Ask them how they have been.
Pray for them and their safety.

Express your love and concern — they might need it now more than ever…