The Pandemic Magnifier (and how we are failing) ...

I am awake, I am alive, and this morning I am pondering magnifiers and amplifiers. Let me explain ...

"Money is the root of all evil."

Yeah, I don't buy that one. Although greed has driven many an unsavory deed, statements such as this are also incredibly effective at keeping the poor ... well, poor.

Instead, I believe money to be a tool, an item of barter that serves to magnify the intent of the user. Good people who want to do good things can do more good with more money. Corrupt people with "evil" intent or little disregard for others will be able to do more harm. Blaming the money for the results is the same as blaming the gun for the murder, someone had to use it to create the end result.

So why this post? Because I am starting to see that this pandemic is working in the same way, often amplifying what was already there. Now that the initial shock is over, people have resumed their lives, although often in a more magnified state - the happy have found ways to continue being so, the social are active online, the true introverts are enjoying the lack of pressure to "come out and play" and the hurting ... are hurting in an isolation of epic magnitude.

Sadly, those struggling with mental health issues are now suffering even more, as support systems that were never adequate in the first place fail miserably in the midst of this challenge. Addicts are struggling without meetings and the reasurrance/guidance that came with them. The lonely - are even more so.

As always, our most vulnerable are suffering the most. Remember them when you complain about not being able to hit the gym. Remember them when you complain about how slow the mail now is. Remember them, advocate for them, help them if you can.

Because I still believe a country should be judged by how they treat their most vulnerable (in the words of Senator Sinclair). In my mind, Canada is once again failing.

The journey continues as do the prayers.

I love you! HUGSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

Sandi

CMHA Thunder Bay Crisis Response Services Is Here to Help! Crisis Response Services offers mobile crisis response, crisis support residence, and 24/7 telephone services to both youth and adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

Eligibility: All Ages

Thunder Bay: 807-346-8282

District / Toll-Free: 1-888-269-3100

Kenora Rainy River District: 1-866-888-8988

https://thunderbay.cmha.ca/progra…/crisis-response-services/