How Precious Life Is

By: Ame-Phil O. Saquiban

​Based on the Department of Health’s report on 14 November 2021, the Philippines COVID-19 cases reached a nationwide tally to 2,816,980 with 28,102 active cases and with death toll climbing to 45,581, which is 1.61% of the total cases.  Every update on our COVID-19 dashboard is more than just a number. It represents people, families and communities. And more than anything, each case represents life.
 
This pandemic has caused a lot of havoc. Life has been put to waste, not only its very existence but also its productivity, functionality, and enjoyment. People cannot go to places they wish to. Children are prohibited to enter into enclosed establishments. Some are forced to stay at home or to spend for a period of quarantine in an isolation area if exposed to a COVID-19 patient. We are put into a confinement, not as a suspect of a crime but as a suspect of this alleged dreaded disease.
 
As we are confronted with this war on health, we get to intently and deeply reflect on how precious and sacred life is. We need not wait for such situation to cause us to pause and value this God-given life. How grateful we are for the breath of life is manifested at best when we make use of our time to honor the Author of life in our thoughts, words and actions. We live circumspectly and do the necessary activities for public good in every step of the way. We make a point that we become asset rather than liability. We consciously put to mind that we are not just living on our own but for others and that we should not be preparing for the present time but for the future as well.
 
Respect for life is not only limited to life preservation and fulfilling the command – “thou shall not kill”, but it recognizes the dignity and worth of every God-given life. Hence, whether we work in public service or in private sector, let us ensure that every life is valued, protected and given the opportunity to flourish, reach his/her full potential and live a meaningful life. Such mindset does not allow greed and selfishness to thrive. It breaks the cycle of acquiring wealth and goods for personal satisfaction.
 
It is said that we only have one life to live and once our time here on earth is over, we can no longer take it back. Let this truth invite us to daily acknowledge the importance of life, not just our lives but also the lives of others including the future generations.
 
Honor the Author of Life by making each breath of life count.