Jacob Hembrom SJ
Today we remember the International Day of Families. The scenario of families has changed somewhat this year. The unprecedented Covid -19 effect and the lockdown have brought all of us together as a family more than ever.
Some of us function through virtual means from home. Unlike other days, we have more time now to be with our loved ones for taking care of them and for helping them in their needs.
Some of the families have grouped into associations for reaching out to the victims of the pandemic. Some individuals go out of their way to help the corona victims providing them with the oxygen cylinders. Some distribute food to the homeless. Some render help in carrying the dead to crematoriums. Not worried about consequences, some take a bold step to look after the needs of the homeless and the poor. These are the true witnessing values and virtues that we have acquired from our sacred family, ‘the School of love’.
This helping attitude of the neighbour is visible not only among us but also is also seen and experienced globally. As India fights the Covid pandemic, about 15 countries, including the US, Russia, France and the United Kingdom, have came forward with emergency gadgets to help India. It is a gesture love and family fellowship.
As we remember this day, let us continue to nourish this virtue of love and care for each other beyond all caste, creed or colour. Ultimately, humanity matters most.