In the last weeks, we have been inundated with news about the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the world, Canada, and on PEI. Rightly so, we have taken nothing short of draconian measures in order to help our medical staff and facilities enjoy some sort of grace period — if and when the virus intensifies on our Island. In fact, we are indeed full of hope that these steps will even prevent the worst-case scenario and widespread contagion. In the next weeks we will all be keeping low-key and waiting on the good news that life can return to its regular rhythm.
During this time, we have a wonderful opportunity to break free of the fast-paced routine we live and learn to know one another in a new and better way. It’s also an opportunity to see how well we rally to adversity and to affirm we are not alone. There are others who care about me. There are people who will come to my aid in times of crisis. There are super-heroes among us. There are those who will go the extra mile to show they care for those who are in need.
The anxiety we feel right now and the readiness we display in accepting these safety measures are deeply rooted in our love of LIFE. The PEI Right to LIFE Association has as its mission to proclaim and protect the dignity of all human life. Our words are most often coupled in the defense of the unborn child or other vulnerable people who are often shunned or disregarded. Yet it is this very love of life that prompts Islanders to ask neighbors if they need help at the grocery store, make extra call to friends and family and self-isolate at this time of unprecedented need. It seems that PEI really is deeply pro-life, and this is good news. It is very good news.
I encourage all Islanders to put on a “superhero cape” now — and keep it on even after this event has blown over. The needy, the lost, the lonely, will still be here after COVID-19 and we will all still be in need of ‘acts of love’ long after this has passed.
Let us work to be a society that lives the truth of love; A society that knows, love saves lives.
