EDITORIAL: Stay positive amidst crisis

It is alarming to note the preponderance of negative information flooding local, regional and international news. If one were to tune in to the daily fare being dished out by some media houses and social media, one would surely suffer “informational indigestion”. Reports of violence, crime, social deviation, political misdeeds and environmental disasters are par for the course, but added to this for the past year have been increasingly more distressing news reports about the coronavirus pandemic.

Here in Barbados there is a tradition of a daily litany of complaints – albeit sometimes with good cause – about the costs and standards of products and services; the conditions of Barbados’ roads, and frightening financial forecasts. However for the past few days the issue on everyone’s lips has been the local transmission of COVID-19 cases and the efforts by all to ensure potentially affected persons are tested and the virus spread contained.

Still, this atmosphere of misery being painted by some is unfortunate, since focusing on the negative will do more harm than good. It is true that individuals have the right to criticise within reason and the right to agitate for change. It is also fair to say that hiding from the truth and hoping for the best is never a wise choice. However, it is also unwise, useless and self-defeating to immerse oneself in negativity or repeatedly harp on about challenges – moreso if you fail to bring even a partial solution to the table.

Instead, focus on the positive. With just three days into a new year, the time is right for a mental reboot and an attitude change. Yes, the news about local transmission is undesirable, however now is the time to recommit to following specified protocols and keeping yourself and your family safe. Wash hands frequently, wear masks when in the presence of others, stay the required six feet apart from others not of your household, and make wise, educated decisions about your actions.

Channel renewed vigor into plans for improvement and development and put them into action where possible, as 2021 will certainly challenge you to think outside the box.

This year, challenge yourself to be purely positive. When tales of gloom arise, look always on the brighter side for it will help to shape one’s reality. Thoughts are the impetus for words, words give rise to actions, and actions eventually lead to the moulding of character and how one is perceived and interacts with others. So, by thinking positive thoughts, one could influence immediate environments and personal destinies.

Those who espouse on the virtues and means of self-enlightenment would also tell that energy does not dissipate, it transfers; so positive energy would spread to others just as negative energy does. Thus we get terms like “peer pressure” and “group mentality”, which speak to this phenomenon. Based on this, every resident in this country should make it their personal mission in life to “think positive thoughts”.

Throughout all this, you are encouraged to take time and reflect carefully. Do not be swayed by emotionally charged conversations or led astray by misinformation. Do not rely solely on state intervention to ensure your own personal health. Do not focus on the past. Use your intellect, remain positive and move ahead.