There’s an app called ‘Be my eyes’ which visually impaired people can use to call volunteers around the world for help with everyday tasks. I answered one of these calls today. It was from a woman who needed help cleaning her stove. We talked while I helped her out and she asked me where I was from. And I told her. She asked me how things are here. And I asked her.
She told me, “I’m doing the best I can.” She said that the people around her have been taking the situation too lightly. They live life as if nothing is wrong. She added she has no access to toilet paper, Lysol or basic utilities. If the stores stock up in the mornings, these things fly off the shelves by noon. My heart went out to her. I asked her if she’s been staying home, taking care of herself the best she can and she replied, “I’m one of the sick people. I don’t have working kidneys. I’m immunocompromised. I step out 3 times a week for my dialysis.” She added, “Things are so expensive now. The meat you’d get for $5, now costs $15.” I felt so, so terrible for her and I asked her how she’s been managing. Again, she said, “I’m doing the best I can.”
They were given $1200 but politicians made it seem like it was a favour. She said between the treatments, shopping for utilities and other expenses, the amount was just not enough. She felt cheated by the people who were living their lives as if nothing is going on. But instead of dwelling on it, she asked me how things were on my end.
I said that where I live, things aren’t as bad as the rest of the country but I also told her that it felt like things are getting worse. We spoke some more about where we’re from and how we’re handling it. And before ending the call, she said to me, “Thank you so much for your help. I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers. I pray that things get better for all of us.”
Speaking to her today reminded me of my privilege. So in case you think things are getting back to normal, they’re not. Before you exercise your rights, give a moment of thought to this woman and those like her. Give a thought to the responsibilities you have towards them and do the best that you possibly can to take care of yourself and those around you.
Memoirs of a Muse 