Have you ever imagined that one day you have to stay six feet apart from people? Welcome to the “new normal.” No classes. No work outside home. No traveling. No public transportation. No strolling. No church Masses. No outing with friends. No family gatherings. No shaking of hands. No hugs and no kisses.
Who would have thought that distance would become so important in our lives?
Imagine a father sleeping in a tent just outside the house to ensure the safety of his family. Imagine a grieving family with no visitors, no pats on the back, no hugs to comfort them. Imagine a mother who cannot give her baby kisses when she misses her child so much. Imagine the loneliness of a person who lives alone and relies on her friends for company. Imagine the pain of staying away for the sake of your safety. These are only a few examples of how physical distancing affects a person’s life.
Indeed, no man is an island. Even with gadgets and the internet around, these will not suffice compared to the need for human interaction. There would always be a difference when we see, touch, talk, and interact with a person face to face.
Distance is not empty. It is a space waiting to be filled with learning. We learn that small talk is important, that a simple pat and hug can give comfort. We learn to give importance to the word “togetherness” every time we meet our loved ones, our friends, and the people we consider our family. We cherish every moment; we make the most out of it and leave no room for regrets.
The battle is not done and we are still in the process of achieving a COVID-19-free Philippines. Let us not waste time bickering with each other. Instead, know that we can be together even when we’re apart. We can give hope even when we’re apart. We can show love even when we’re apart. Call a friend. Pray for the government, the frontliners, the sick and the broken. Let your light spark hope in the life of another. Let the distance matter.
Cherlyn Boteng Casiwan
Baguio City