Listen dear Lockdown, you do not hold the power to break me down, no matter what you do….
Can we comprehend how vast this universe is? If my dear readers are of the notion that the sun is the biggest star we have ever witnessed, they are in for a surprising treat of knowledge. In the observable universe (which is a minute version of the colossal universe scientists have been able to discover so far), there exists one star namely UY Scuti estimated to have a radius 1700 times greater than that of the sun of the solar system. This comparison brings to mind a scale of measurement that certainly provides a rough idea of how stupendously big the actual universe could be. This is just one example of the many signs out there constantly making us realize that the Creator is unmatched and unparallel in His undertakings. Not to mention the unlimited bounties of nature bestowed upon us on this rock called Earth. It is, however, unfortunate on our part that we have taken these fruits and blessings for granted.
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Misdoings with fellow beings, negligence to maintain a hygienic environment, highly irresponsible attitude toward one’s assigned duties, complete lack of empathy for others, are some of the reasons we are being faced with an unprecedented catastrophe in the form of COVID-19. With its epicenter in the Peoples Republic of China, this lethal virus has gone pandemic within a matter of months. Like wildfire gone haywire, the deadly disease has now registered itself on almost all the continents. There have been so many deaths, countless infected, with numbers still climbing. But let us not crunch numbers now. The media is taking care of that. Under such turbulent times what pleases the sore eyes is the sight of our unwavering doctors, nurses, voluntary workers, law enforcement personnel who have locked horns with the pandemic and are bent upon bringing it down to its knees. The unanimous decision to conduct additional call for prayers (Adhaan) at 10 each evening is soothing for our auditory senses. This initiative of the respected Islamic scholars does not and must not go unacknowledged. We have come across numerous physicians taking to social media, playing their part in dispensing information on precautionary measures to avoid possible infection.
Sooner or later, every breathing soul has to face the bitter truth. Eventually, all creation comes face to face with the Grim Reaper. It’s only a matter of time. The question arises if we are preparing ourselves to qualify for the real life that awaits us, of which this world is the cultivating ground? A meaningful life is one that carries a genuine purpose to help create a world for the greater good. During these turbulent times of viruses and lockdowns, we still have a lot to do from the safety of our homes. Here are some ideas I would like to share with all you beautiful folks out there:
1. Sharing is caring –
This cliché reminds us that as responsible citizens, we are capable of distinguishing right from wrong. We can take care before sharing. Why not share content that is meaningful and constructive? Why not share content that promotes love, motivation, hope, peace, prosperity, humor? For the first time, in a very long time, social media handles such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and what not are being utilized for a constructive purpose, for a humane cause. There are some naughty groups, however, who are still tempted to pass derogatory and sarcastic remarks against those not of their manifesto. But that is OK. We can ignore those in the face of the on-going crises. This is a humble initiative to send a message to all my FB network. Before sharing any content on any social medium, please determine what kind of impact it will create, positive or negative. It is totally up to you.
2. Rescue the dying reading culture –
Let us be honest. When was the last time you read a book? In this era of technological advancement, we are being dumped with information overload head to heal. Rather than recommending good books to our children, we buy them smart phones and believe that this device is going to bring them all the wisdom they need. These devices have become an integral part of our lives, no doubt. But they can be put to better use for our loved ones. Why not develop a culture of reading books on smart phones. Numerous e-books with so many good teachings on life are available on your fingertips, awaiting to be gobbled. Yes, they are available online for free, free, free. Take the initiative. I have the soft copies available. If you really need one, get in touch. Following are some I strongly recommend:
- ‘The 100’ by Michael H. Hart.
- ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho.
- ‘The Last Stand’ by Stephen King.
- ‘The Last Lecture’ by Randy Pausch.
- ‘It’s All About Attitude’ by Justin Herald.
- ‘Awaken The Giant Within’ by Anthony Robbins.
- ‘The Leader Without a Title’ by Robin S. Sharma.
- ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’ by Robin S. Sharma.
- ‘The Greatest Salesman In The World’ by Og Mandino.
- The Quick And Easy Way To Effective Speaking by Dale Carnegie.
3. Be part of an NGO –
Even from the confinement of our homes, we can support the voluntary organizations that are driven to help the needy. JDC Foundation, Saylani Welfare, Edhi Foundation to name a few are doing their part for the greater good of Pakistan. Let us do ours. Start contributing. Monetarily or morally, both are acceptable. Pick up your smart phones and donate some through Easy Paisa. If not in monetary terms, we can morally support them by forwarding their voice on social media platform.
4. Engage with your loved ones –
These lockdowns have certainly taught me a lesson. I always took my family for granted. They are always there for me. My father full of wisdom, my mother coming with unconditional love, the most caring wife God could bless me with and not the least my gem of a daughter. But I never paid attention to them owing to my so called ‘hectic’ job. Now that I am restricted to the walls of my home, I realize how important my family is. Go ahead, spend quality time with them. Kiss them each morning or throughout the day whenever you get the liberty of doing so. Just do it.
5. Exert yourself physically –
Keeping ourselves physically fit during lockdowns has become a tedious task. But there are ways to achieve this as well. Watch the following video and see what I mean:
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The above is, obviously, not an exhaustive list of things we can do to make quality use of our time during the currency of social distancing and after as well. There are unlimited possibilities waiting to be found out and tried. We just need to open our eyes, gear our will power with the fuel to bring out a difference in people’s lives.
What is it that you guys will do today? Pour in your ideas. I would love to try them out.
With gratitude…
