Unsung heroes display courage in midst of pandemic

WE ARE about to witness the “darkest winter in modern history”.

The Covid-19 biological storm has turned into a hurricane as it sweeps across the country.

Amid this valley of death are the health workers, our rubbish collectors, the doctors, the nurses, the volunteers, the grave diggers, our religious leaders and those who fearlessly prepare bodies for burial, our teachers, who are under massive strain, continue to educate our children exposing themselves in a deadly, toxic environment.

The absolute dedication of these men and women is mind-blowing.

In our hour of mortal crisis, courage is displayed by these fearless individuals who risk life and limb to lessen the pangs of pain, sorrow and bereavement.

It reveals bravery which inspires us to overcome our fear.

Often we call brave people fearless. But courage isn’t fearlessness.

As beloved icon Nelson Mandela recalled: “I learnt that… the brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers fear.”

If there is no fear to start with, there is no need for courage.

We have graphically witnessed our volunteers dig deep into their reserves of courage in an epic battle to sustain life, provide life-giving services, render emergency aid, deliver urgent essentials in a never-ending battle to pacify an embattled society.

It encourages, it is positively infectious, even in the worst, most helpless seeming of situations.

Their acts of valour inspire and impel the human spirit towards building a better environment amid the ashes of Covid-19.

History will record for posterity, the supreme sacrifices, these unsung heroes made to ensure our survival as a human species.

These undocumented heroes deserve to have their names emblazoned across the heartland of our beloved nation; never in our recorded history have so few done so much for so many for so little gratitude.

FAROUK ARAIE | Benoni