Just maybe …

THE EDITOR, Madam:

WHAT WILL be the lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic which has swept the globe? I believe one will be the new levels of appreciation which will emerge.

Maybe for once we will truly appreciate the value of family, and the support and togetherness we all crave. So many are separated from loved ones now by quarantine or isolation, not to mention those who have passed on alone, surrounded by strangers.

Maybe we will truly appreciate our jobs and the daily routine of work, which brings its own intrinsic reward. Never before in modern times has every industry worldwide been impacted so significantly, without exception.

Maybe for the first time at last, customers will feel appreciated and not thought of as a burden or bother. What an opportunity now for every business to reach out to existing and potential customers and deliver exceptional customer experience.

Maybe the ability to give and receive a hug will be more appreciated in a post-COVID-19 world.

Maybe socialising at events, concerts, in restaurants, at the beach, in our parks or in church will take on new dimensions.

Maybe the freedom to travel once again, to experience different cultures and mores, even for work, will have new significance.

Maybe we will understand and value the work and sacrifice of our front-line health workers and supporting staff as they put their lives at risk for us.

Maybe at last our teachers will receive the full recognition they deserve, as not all of us have the patience to teach our children.

Maybe school won’t be such a dreaded place anymore, and classmates will have a new sense of bonding.

Maybe as taxpayers, our contribution to national development will be recognised and every effort made by the Government to protect the rights and well-being of its citizens. Just maybe …

REICHEL NEIL Kingston