It's been over a year since covid-19 became a global crisis.
Millions of cases, not to mention deaths, ensued in what could very well be the worst catastrophe the world had ever been confronted with. To this day, the surge of people afflicted by the virus continues to escalate, and the sad part is, we seem to be helpless against an invisible enemy.
Since its onset, Filipinos had been relentlessly praying for an end to the pandemic. The oratio imperata, as well as daily recitation of the rosary for this intention had become habitual for Filipinos.
In addition, Pope Francis had consecrated the Philippines to Our Blessed Mother, and on two occasions, had delivered the "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and to the world), a rare apostolic blessing given on solemn occasions. Our pleas however, had somewhat remained "unanswered".
Our country had gone through the worst (typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) and we would always hold out against them. We would pray for God's intervention and He would at all times see us through.
This time however is an all-together different situation.
It seems our prayers had been falling on "deaf ears" and we are at a loss as to the reason behind it. We even hear people asking, "why does God allow this to happen?"
Some religious sectors believe this is a form of chastisement. I would rather refer to it as a "rude awakening".
We know everything happens for a reason, and nothing would transpire if God did not allow it. Be that as it may, we also know for a fact that ours is not a vindictive God. In all probability, it could be an indication that He just wants to open our eyes to things we fail to see and appreciate.
A couple of days ago, I read the story of a 93 year old man in Italy who was inflicted with the virus and upon recovering, was asked by the hospital to pay the cost of the respirator for 500 euros a day. Upon being informed he cried, not because he can not afford to, but because he realized he had been breathing God's air for 93 years and never paid, much more thanked God for it.
This man opened our eyes to the painful reality that we had been taking for granted the air we had been breathing freely all this time.
On hind-sight, maybe God wants us to realize and understand the worth, not only of the air around us, but everything He passed on to us on his own free will.
It's about time we make a discernment or a personal reflection. Before we even ask Him to put an end to the pandemic, let us first thank Him for all the things He gives on his own volition, for He knows our needs even before we ask Him.
So next time we ask ourselves why we have to go through this difficult situation, remember GRATITUDE (or lack of it) is the answer.
After all, it takes so little to be grateful. A simple "thank you" is enough.
