Letters to the editor: We have a duty to protect the old and wise

Something that struck me in the early days of the current crisis was the reaction of the older and wiser among us.

Life experiences oftentimes temper our reactions to different challenges and how we face adversity.

Faced with attack from a virus that thrives on human contact, close proximity and unhygienic habits the older and wiser stayed in, distanced themselves and paid even more attention to good hygiene. They led by example.

As I move towards the “older”category, I am slowly but surely realising how fast life passes and how precious it is.

There is no doubt that the journey can be rough at times but there are very few of us that are in a hurry to say goodbye.

We all have so much to live for and very often it is only when we are unwell or feel that something is going to be taken from us that we grow concerned.

When the old and the wise are asked what is it that they most crave in the midst of the current pandemic they respond with a wish to be with their family, to hug their grandchildren, to take a stroll by the sea shore, to travel to a game, to enjoy the simple pleasures that life has to offer.

We want to be with our loved ones, to feel loved and to be loved. With a show of strength and courage we will get to enjoy these simple pleasures once more.

The older among us are the most courageous. They have been there and done that and carry with them the attitude “there is more to do”. The wisdom they impart to younger generations is priceless and they pass on their life lessons that guide and shape future generations. The older generation is often referred to as “the vulnerable”. To me that is not the case.

Others, through their misguided actions, make them vulnerable, vulnerable in the sense of causing fear through violent acts such as aggravated burglaries, causing anxiety through aggressive language and attitudes, causing distress and the spread of illness through ignorance and failure to follow simple instructions.

We have a duty to protect the old and the wise. The best way to do so is to follow their lead by making sacrifices, following instructions and having an awareness that by doing the right thing we can and will save lives.

Jim O’Sullivan

Douglas

Cork

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