Do we care?

As we move into the second decade of the 21st century, my wish for all of us is better health, a greener environment, a clear perspective and positive attitudes. Looking at my new year resolution list like most - follow a diet, exercise more, sleep on time, set SMART goals and above all, enjoy life. I hope they last till February when I see you again in my next post. Throughout the wish list and discussions with friends and anyone around,

I see we all want change. The pre-pandemic me would not much believe in Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher who said 'Change is the only constant in life.'

However, the pandemic made me realize everything will change over time. The way everyone around us managed their life during these times is remarkable and will go down the memory. Standing here after 18 long months in the pandemic feels like we all adapted to the constant change like the sugar in the milk.

Staying tuned to the changes, I wish we all take a conscious look away from our screens and enquire about the person next to us now and then. Not to forget that we are still humans and need contact with other beings to survive. A growing number of us are busy with our life and screens, leaving many feeling isolated even while sharing the same space. I am sure this habit will not take us far in the future. We will need compassion and care to share each other's problems, fears and thoughts and help sail through the tide whenever possible.

Of late am surprised by the attitudes of many thinking, they are immune to everything like nothing affects them. It's good to be confident in one's ability to face difficulties and solve problems. But no one has seen the future twenty years down the line will need more humans and fewer robots (screens) to show kindness and empathy. I hope we don't forget to live well amidst the whirlpool of artificial life and fake prosperity. Until Mr. Musk manages to take us to Mars, we will have to live here on earth and look after the people on the left and right of us. Am sure by now you might find me sounding like an old tape recorder on these views. But the more I work on advanced technologies and read on artificial intelligence, the more I trust worldly wisdom and ways of living.

I like most others, have conflicting thoughts on the extent to which we should help others. There is a balance between being supportive and not mending in others' affairs. Many might not be comfortable seeking help, a few might want to tackle their problems independently and others might want to be just left alone. However the case may be, one has to be still ready to land a helping hand or ears to listen or at least show respect.

Once on my park walks, an elderly gentleman walking ahead of me at a distance had a tumble and couldn't get up on his own. A lady nearby and I ran to his rescue. The very handsome, tall British grandpa refused to take our help. He wanted to get up by himself, trusting his abilities and body strength. After multiple unsuccessful attempts to get up, which I appreciate, the lady and I offered to help him but failed. Thankfully a young jogger passed by offered his hand. We all managed to get the grandpa back on his feet. The gentleman thanked us for our help and walked towards the end of the park. We watched his back till he could safely go over a distance. His will to get up and carry on confidently inspired me. I pondered what if there was no one around to help or call an ambulance in case of emergency. Far worst, what if there were people around busy on their screens and behaved as if it's none of our business. Will we continue to care for one another?