TODAY’S PAPER | February 14, 2026 | EPAPER

Blessing in disguise?

Letter April 12, 2020
This is just the start.

ISLAMABAD: The coronavirus pandemic has affected the lives of people tremendously. Many have been suffering physically and psychologically. We all have been busy running a race in an attempt to become successful and rich; and while doing so somewhere along the line, we have lost track of the little joys in life. During these testing times, it is important to highlight the positive side of life and to rethink what it truly means to live in this world.

When humanity was enjoying the fruits of technology and progress no one had time for each other. Now we find ourselves quarantined in our houses with a lot of time to spare. It is in these moments that we can really reflect the true essence of life that we all have lost along the way. We will be able to spend time with our family members and recall past memories. This is an opportunity to really get to know the people that we love — listen to them, talk to them and ask them questions. In such an eerie atmosphere that the pandemic has created, one can only find solace in spending precious time with family. It is important to create a long-lasting bond because after this is all over you may not be able to get the time.

Furthermore, many countries around the world have witnessed a significant reduction in their carbon footprint. This shows that in drastic situations we are able to implement the necessary changes. This is something we need to think about when moving forward. We have become a threat to nature and nature has already started to react back.

Every cloud has a silver lining and this problem shall soon pass. But in the meantime, let us not forget that we also need to inculcate good habits within us in this challenging. This is just the start.

Syed Touseef Sabir

Published in The Express Tribune, April 12th, 2020.

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