
During a time when the world is fighting a war against an unseen enemy and many have tragically succumbed to this formidable opponent, not only am I reminded of my responsibility to do the right things by others and myself but the mantra of ‘gratitude being the only attitude’ has taken on more of a significance than ever before.
I caught a piece on ‘The Project’ a few days ago which was eye-opening and cemented for me the notion of living a privileged life in Australia when presenter and social commentator Waleed Ali quoted from an Indian Doctor’s letter about social distancing, hand washing, buying hand sanitizer and lockdowns being priviledges the affluent can afford.
When Waleed mentioned ‘Infrastructure’ as a reason for privilege it provoked thought. He cited the example of citizens of West Bengal in India choosing to live in trees to physically distance themselves to stay safe because their dwellings in such a populous State in India are so close to each other that keeping a safe distance would otherwise be near impossible.
I am therefore more determined than ever to appreciate and be thankful for larger living spaces, the financial capacity to buy hand sanitizers and other necessities, for clean running water, for good health services, to still be employed, to have a social security system that is there for those who need it, comparatively good leadership in government, for fresh air and for outdoor spaces like my own backyard, expansive parks and stunning beaches that can still be enjoyed with some minor restrictions intended to keep us healthy.



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