- Take care of our own health and theirs: Do not endanger a life. Here, love of our neighbor legitimately requires love of self as well. Someone who is infected will almost inevitably put others at risk.
- Do not judge: This virus is new. We're navigating in uncharted waters. None of us will make the right call 100% of the time; neither will my neighbor.
- Kindness and patience: I can skip a chance to be angry at someone. We all have extra struggles now.
- Listening and staying connected: I can make a phone call, send a message, have a quick video chat. When we're isolated there are all kinds of problems, and fewer solutions. Left alone, it's easy to slide into self-doubt or low spirits. It's easier to fall into fear or anger. The act of connecting to another person can re-set our minds.
- Visit the sick: This can be done on-line or by phone or by a card; no one needs to risk personal health in order to visit the sick.
- Feed the hungry: The lock-down has been economically devastating for millions of families. Now more than ever, there's a chance to feed the hungry.
I'd be glad to hear of other things that haven't made the list yet.
2 comments:
The medieval list of seven corporal works of mercy are as follows:
feed the hungry
give drink to the thirsty
give shelter to strangers
clothe the naked
visit the sick
minister to prisoners
bury the dead.
Not exactly the same culture, and I don't do all of these things -- I should.
Thank you! The list seems familiar ... ;)
Take care & God bless
Anne / WF
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