Documented philosophical observation has been present throughout history, in scripture, to roman and greek philosophers. Scholars travelled to seats of wisdom to discuss and debate schools of thought, to find reason for our existence. “Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.” by Plato is apt in this discussion of how the idea of reason in society is a need of every and all hours. Their thoughts have maintained societal groundedness.
In this difficult time of the corona virus lockdown, we have found leaders and voices of reason. I must thank and keep in mind all of those who are putting their lives at risk to make possible the lockdown, here in the United States as well as all over the world. May it be law enforcement, delivery personnel, grocery staff, clinicians, nurses, hospital staff etc. They are listening to their inner voice of reason to work for the community and allow us to remain where they can do our job. I am sure some of them have the option to stay at home yet, have ventured in harms way to give use the breathing space to tackle the pandemic.
Importantly Dr Fauci, Bill Gates, Governer Cuamo, Mamata Banerjee, Prime minister Modi of India are some of the names that come to mind. These people have come out and have quelled the anxiety of large sections of people who are following the unraveling of the pandemic, and the uncertainty of it. Dr Fauci here in the United states has become the voice of reason in bringing the cold hard facts about the underlying current that the virus is causing.
But I am intrigued by the unlikely voices of reason, that some 20-30 year olds have become for their parents, in using their knowledge and presence of mind to prevent their parents from harm’s way, and some have been otherwise selfish in their enjoyment of life. Having said that, it is surprising how differently various socio-political and religious inclinations have played a major role in people’s response to this outbreak. I myself was of the opinion that since the outbreak would eventually hit everyone and be characterized a seasonal endemic, it would be better to work. My wife stood to be my voice of reason, explaining that my one month old would be left without anyone to care for her if either of us was tested positive, let alone would require emergency care in the event of infection.
With this I realize that as life events change, people take on unexpected roles, in being the voices of reason for everyone. That could be parents, kids, loved ones, leaders, and any person who sheds light on the truth. It is just the trust in these voices that will allow us to tide through situations like the one we have been facing for the last couple of months.
What is that thing that grounds us and makes us realize that we are not alone, our actions shouldn’t be due to the fear of the unknown. If history has taught us anything, It is that catastrophes, like seasons , come and go. They have a finite capacity for ruin. Unnerving as it may seem a dire situation, the cause for reason is to know that there always is light after darkness. For me as a Catholic, its Psalm 46, and the knowledge that come what may, its my job to have a clean heart, so even if I have to leave, I leave without fear and full of confidence.
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