A letter to my future generations

Dear family,

I usually record events that I believe are significant in my life for my future generations. When I planned to write about COVID 19, I thought you should read this too.

Despite the many heart-wrenching experiences and difficulties we have had, only one observation pops to my head. During times of survival, mankind shows immense power and the desire to survive. We also display a great sense of togetherness that binds us despite varied differences.

I see a sense of spirit that drives the human species to survive. Speaking of which I remember how in the book “ Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind”, Noah Harari discusses the topics of survival instincts and the theory of survival of the fittest. You should all consider reading this book. It is like the bible for human evolution for the common man.

While COVID 19 has brought forth the unity of our species, it has also shown the impact we as a species have on our mother earth. I am not here to talk about any statistics or phenomena justifying the impact. It amazes me how one species can create total havoc and destroy the equilibrium amongst all species. Just because homo sapiens are at the top of the pyramid does not guarantee our rights to create havoc. When I see videos of muddy waters turning clear, dolphins returning to its habitat and deer jumping in joy in our absence, I don’t know about you but I am ashamed.

I cannot give this planet to my kids like this. I know we all have good intentions but no use with that alone. This isolation period has been like a shocking reminder of our capabilities and our utmost laziness due to modernization.

When countries across the globe are trying to adopt the Indian lifestyle, we are busy wondering about our western counterparts. It is time to identify our strengths. Our strength lies in our way of living or more precisely the way our parents and grandparents lived. Even in this modern-day, I’m sure we can adopt a few of our olden lifestyle. In times of crisis, we shouldn’t be looking in youtube how to use turmeric and pepper for cold and cough. Ginger, lemon, honey, turmeric, pepper and so on are the fundamentals of Ayurveda. When we know which paracetamol and antibiotic we should use, it’s fair enough to know some basic home remedies too. Many across the globe adore yoga for its amazing benefits. We find increased followers of yogic practices because it has been popularised by the western culture. Make it a part of your lifestyle. Our grandparents followed them. I can say they are stronger than our generation.

Regardless of the origin of the disease, which is beyond our scope of understanding, I see this as an opportunity to revisit our roots and rediscover some of the diminishing sciences. It’s coexistence or no existence.

With love,
your friend