Deal with covid19 with courage, compassion

THE EDITOR: Judging from panic responses in Italy to the coronavirus, it seems necessary for TT to step up its preparations for what now seems inevitable, the likelihood that some of our people might respond with similar panic when the virus eventually reaches.

Those who live the religious way of life, and whose faith has entered into their hearts, must now set the example for others whose hearts lack faith; and the very first thing they must share with others is banishment of fear of death.

This is possible only when we believe that life and death are in the blessed hands of He who gives life, and who also takes it.

If death is written for any of us, we should die courageously; hence instead of running away in panic (Italian style) from the town or village which has been struck with the virus, or refusing to shake hands with a brother, or barricading ourselves in our homes with nary a care for others, this is the time for men and women of faith to set the example of courage and compassion by reaching out to join in the effort to care for others who may be in need of help.

Had Patrick Manning still been alive, I believe he would have been precisely such a courageous Christian leader whose faith would have shone brightly as he set the example for his people to respond intelligently and compassionately at a time of such a crisis. May the Lord have mercy on his soul.

IMRAN N. HOSEIN

Via e-mail