LETTERS – Perhaps we can conclude that the 2021 culminates with acts of kindness?
We experienced, saw, heard and read of how first-responders rushed to disaster sites extending help to those in need, neighbours, communities, total strangers and even animals.
The general perception is that there were no orders or chain of command to follow in the latest crisis.
Traversing distance and immediately leaving their busy daily routines, many of those coming to the rescue are nameless. They deserved to be praised as they even risked their lives to help people.
In the silence of the dark and cold nights, none bothered to be captured on social media or to be recognised and rewarded thereafter.
Deeds were mostly unseen but only felt by those helped. To these selfless people, it is only fair that we thank you.
And do these extraordinary acts of compassion happen only when major catastrophes strike?
Another perception is that we will fall back into our divisions when there’s a full recovery.
Or is this the inescapable feature of capitalist modernity, as political theorist Hannah Arendt thought, that people live as “isolated individuals in an atomised society”?
What then has it done to our society? The isolation of the masses leading to the haunting spectre of loneliness?
Therefore, when faced with these crises, is there much hope left? How can we, as individuals, make a difference in facing such an extreme situation?
Those ordinary folks without organisational machinery, might have shown the way forward or the right way about dealing with things – by standing up and being altruistic.
Another question is, how to practise kindness? There are many recipes for kindness. The best articulated by philosopher Simone Weil, who said “attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity. We would do well to give attention to our homes, families, co-workers and acquaintances and show this generosity abundantly”.
However, these days with the fast-paced and hyperconnected life, our attention span is very brief. We always judgment people to fast and are critical of others.
Worse, the belief of not being good enough may unfortunately turn inwards, exacerbating loneliness and isolation.
When making New Year resolutions, why not we, as a starting point, be kind to oneself? Not just in deed but in thoughts and words, too, because nobody is perfect.
Pay attention to our physical, mental and spiritual health, as well as the people around us. Be gracious even in the most difficult of times.
Every day, every small kindness counts. Remember to be kind to nature too. Hopefully, after all that has been said and done, we can build a better world to live in, moving forward.
Source: Cheah C.F. (NST.COM.MY)
