The saddest routine news story during the pandemic was about every sick person who died alone. It reflected a necessary containment measure, but unlike the other strategies this asked the most vulnerable among us to sever the final rope that tethered them to the living world. In those dark moments, I reflected on my past four years of hospice volunteer work. Even in the best of times, it seemed someone was always about to die alone, so each week was an appeal against destiny. When the pandemic ends people will still die alone, and I'll be ready to get back to work.
I think many have felt something these past few months, perhaps manifesting as outrage, despair, or helplessness. Some tragedy hits us at the very core and we can do nothing more than shudder in the silent air of home. Hang onto that feeling, and remember it. When things return to a New Normal, the outrage, despair, or helplessness may pass, but most of the underlying problems will remain. Take advantage of a second chance, and follow the feeling until someone gladly welcomes your helping hand.
