With the coronavirus going on, the theme that has popped up the most is that we’re all in this together. But in reality, we’re not. Are we all fighting against an unknown virus? Yes – however everyone’s circumstances are not the same.
There are people who have lost their jobs. Some people are struggling financially; others are on the front lines caring for those who are sick. Finally, there are those people who are sick. Everyone has different circumstances. I think this time is going to be a defining time especially to those who are Christian.
I’ve seen so many different things from people hoarding toilet paper, to a meat counter that is practically empty. This is a weird time for sure, but that doesn’t mean we should go hoarding everything we can get our hands on. As Christians, especially those who can afford it, we should be helping others in any way that we can.
If able, one should support local businesses during this time. It is imperative and, not only that, a kindness to those who would otherwise find themselves jobless and their businesses forever closed. Tithe to your local church, they are hurting as much as businesses now, unable to open their doors to the people that they care for and serve.
If you’re looking for a list of ideas – think of the corporal works of mercy to get you started
- Feed the hungry and give drink to the thirsty – Donate food to a food bank, help serve lunches to kids in need, make a home cooked meal for someone you know who is hurting
- Clothe the naked – We’re all stuck inside at this time, so now is a great time to go through that closet of yours and donate clothes that may not fit or you don’t wear anymore to your local St. Vincent De Paul store or Goodwill.
- Care for the ill – at this time when we cannot physically visit those in a hospital or those sick at home – we can however give them a call or Facetime with them in order to brighten their spirits and give them some normalcy and hope.
- Shelter the homeless – make a donation to your local Mission or homeless shelter
- Bury the dead – at this time, when we cannot celebrate the loss of a person’s life together. We can pray for those who have passed and their families. Saying a Rosary for their souls is a wonderful way to do this.
See this time as an opportunity to help others if you are able. If you know people who have lost their job, try making and sending them a nice meal or two because they may not be able to afford it. As Christians, we’re called to take care of basic human dignity, and sharing food with those less fortunate certainly attains that goal. Trust me, a homemade meal can go a long way and really make an impression that you care.
Reach out to your local parish. There might be things that you can do to help them during this time of need. Don’t forget about the elderly, whether that be your grandparents or an older neighbor. Check in on them. The elderly are so lonely at this time, a quick phone call or chat could really make a world of difference to them.
One other group of people who are struggling right now are parents. Kids are stuck at home, doing school online when school has been cancelled in person for the rest of the year. Give your time, help people out when you can, maybe send a meal to a family in need. Granted, be safe and be in contact only with those families that you know, but maybe schedule a virtual wine night with friends or a social distancing block party. Something where the parents have a break from the kids for a little bit.
The last group of people are those who are just waiting to celebrate something – whether that is a wedding, a graduation or a birth or even a funeral – everything in life is worth celebrating with people and that’s something that you just can’t do right now. Which in today’s world, is not normal. So what can you do for these people? Send them a card to let them know that you’re thinking of them, cheer them on especially if they have to go through a virtual graduation or even a virtual wedding, make sure you know that you are supporting them. For those that are expecting a child or perhaps the loss of a loved one, again support them in any way that you can. Surprise them with a car parade, send a meal, or maybe help with yard work, something out of the way and out of the ordinary that you can do to help out. From a christian perspective, you could offer up prayers or even a mass for them. Other things that you could do:
- Support your local hair salon
- Buy giftcards or items to keep businesses afloat
- Make masks for those who cannot get the ppe that they need
- Donate your time to help make lunches for kids who need them
- Do virtual nights with family and friends
Whatever you do, make sure that people feel that they are seen, loved and cared for. Because that’s all this life is really about – caring and serving others in whatever way that you can. Everyone’s circumstances in life may not be the same, but that doesn’t mean a person is not deserving of help. We all need help from time to time. During this time of uncertainty, it is not whether or not we are in this together, it is together we can help each other.
