This year, in this month, when we remember the dead, may I suggest we remember lovingly the following groups of persons, and do something for the sad survivors?
COVID ORPHANS
At least 440,000 people have died of Covid in India (according to Government estimates). The Internal Press believe that the actual Indian figures are much higher.
So many deaths mean: so many bereaved spouses and other family members. Among them are thousands of children who have lost one or both parents. They need help urgently. They need shelter, food, education, access to medical care, a loving, listening heart (counselling) to them get over the tragic losses and sense of helplessness.
VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE
Think of Myanmar. Think of Afghanistan. Think of innocent people killed anywhere in the world. They are soon forgotten. Their families continue to suffer. The powerful of this world get media attention and enjoy financial and muscle power. Their victims are often unknown—or soon forgotten.
VICTIMS OF HUNGER
The world has more than enough resources to feed everyone, but injustice, violence and bad distribution keeps many people hungry. India is in a very bad situation on the hunger index. Many more Indians than we may think lack food. While governments need to tackle this tragedy on a large and systematic basis, all of us can do something to provide food or provisions to at least a few persons or families. This does not require much money.
Fr Joe Mannath SDB
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