How we look at things drastically decides our course of action. The thoughts we get, the decisions we make, what path we choose to go upon are all based on our perspective.
With lockdown implemented on the 18th of March, unlike others, I did not look at it as a limitation to my thoughts or to my priorities.
The quote, "Life begins at the end of the comfort zone." had a constructive impression upon me.
Don't all of us grumble about lack of time and a peaceful environment?
The lockdown was a perfect opportunity for me.
The initial phase didn't seem a lot different to me from our normal routine, apart from the growing concern for sanitation and social distancing. With 2G services restored in Kashmir unlike the previous months then, I found myself in a comfortable position to grab this chance.
I also felt that COVID-19 wasn't the only pandemic today. We were facing another pandemic, Rumours.
Being into podcasting on various mediums, I decided to utilize my knowledge in spreading awareness.
I launched the campaign "COVID Free India" eradicating all the rumours associated, which were being a great source of chaos back then.
Similarly, "1 minute with RJ Umar Nasir" was another initiative by me to spread awareness about myths associated with COVID-19. I went on to ground level research for this and corrected anyone, found wrongly interpreting the coronavirus facts.
Another vital aspect, I realized in this lockdown was about the importance of mental health and its related issues.
As per me, if not paid heed to, then this could be the next pandemic for human species.
Looking at the aggravating events around, another of my podcast, "The Lockdown Tales", came into origin.
Here, I interviewed well-known personalities to know about their lockdown journey.
Their activities in ample time and Productivity tips. This basically was for those, who were unable to cope up with idle times.
To help deal with mental health better, I spread a message of positivity
that,
"If a social personality can stay sane in these times, Why can't you?"
After all, doesn't a common man have a lot yet to do, to discover and cherish?
I believe, whatever happens, there is always something good associated with it. Only if we care to notice and act in that direction.
The lockdown did make us realize a lot.
It made us realize the purpose of our living.
Taught us how to support each other in such hard times.
And summarising it all, this was an experience that shall stay in our minds for decades to come ahead.
Penned down by - Muneeba Ashraf