With COVID infections continuing to rise, more deaths and with greater fear and panic on the streets, it’s easy to assume that there has not been that much that’s ‘good’ this past week. Well, this depends on your perspective.
Firstly, it really is ugly
Our Project Help Teams in the 3 cities of Kotdwara, Bijnor and Chandigarh, where we work have had an ugly week. People who team members hold dear are COVID positive. Some are most unwell, unable to get hospital admission or access to oxygen. We pause for a moment, and share the grief of loved ones, friends and neighbours who just this week have lost the battle and have died. Each one of our team members has a story about someone they love or know who has passed away. We pray for the speedy recovery for those who are sick, and for the ongoing safety of our teams and other front-line workers.
Yet, there has been some ‘good’ …stories of determination, kindness, compassion and personal sacrifice, reminding us that there is hope and light in the darkest of places and circumstances. Amit passes on his thanks to our Australian friends and supporters, saying that your love and support has made all the difference to him and the team. You have been a source of great strength and encouragement to them all.
Our team in India is remarkable to say the least. This week they have worked with the police delivering safety awareness to the streets, sanitising areas within the slums, and delivering emergency meals and food rations to hungry people.
Love prevails
In the midst of the suffering and heartbreak in India, there are also some tears of joy. Many people in the slums regard our help as a miracle in a time of desperation when they felt there was no hope. They know they are loved, and not forgotten.
Speaking of forgotten …news media seems to have a short memory. Have you noticed that this week, reports about India seem to have almost disappeared? Unless I missed something, as I skimmed this morning’s Daily Telegraph and Sydney Morning Herald – there was nothing reported. It seems like the rest of the world has moved on. Project Help India, and many other incredible NGO’s across India remain at the coal face. Sadly, there is much to do and a long way to go over the days, weeks and months ahead.
Thanks for journeying with us.