Editor:
We all know how the Coronavirus is spread. It spreads silently from person to person before anyone is aware that they are sick. It can pass between strangers on the street or between close friends and family.
However, COVID-19 is not the only thing that has been spreading like wildfire these past few months. Anxiety, fear and anger have also been catching.
Fear that we or those we care about will get sick. Fear over a second wave in the fall. Anxiety over the myriad of things we cannot control. Anxiety over what will happen next. Anger over restrictions. Anger towards the government. Anger for those who look or think differently than us. The spread of fear, anxiety and anger is even harder to stop than a virus. No plexiglass barrier or face mask can slow them down. They can be spread through internet cables, news reports, cell phones. They pass from household to household without any contact at all.
What if instead of fear, faith was contagious? The feeling of being out of control shakes us to the core. What if we had faith that someone else in charge? Someone who can see the whole picture. A God who cares about us more than we could possibly imagine.
What if instead of anxiety, hope was catching? Hope that hard times do not last forever. Hope that there is a purpose for every season we go through. Hope that God can get us through whatever news today brings.
What if instead of anger, love was spreading? Love for our neighbours who may or may not be sick. Love for people who wear masks and for people who do not. Love for those who maintain social distancing faithfully and for those who get too close. Love for those who look like us and those who look different. Love for those who agree with us and for those whose opinions offend.
Faith, hope and love can be contagious like COVID. They can jump from person to person, between strangers, friends and loved ones. They can spread without any physical contact at all.
What are people catching from you today?
Alison Wagler, Burnaby
