Covid took someone from Me & You

May 2021

Dear grieving friends and family,

I know you are in pain. You lost someone whom you loved with all your heart. The worst part is that you didn't even get to say goodbye. I understand that it is difficult to cope up with this horrendous time. I am sorry for you; for your loss which is irreparable. This letter is a tribute to you and your staunch resilience throughout everything that you’ve been through.

You may feel like you’re surrounded by losses right now, and that’s okay, it isn’t your fault. The grim news is all that everyone seems to be talking about, it’s all over news channels and is constantly being posted on social media platforms. I understand that it is hard to stay away from, considering the fact that we all are isolated in our homes and usually resort to these outlets to cheer ourselves up.

I know that the pandemic has made the loss even harder to process since you might be feeling that your grief is overshadowed by the larger global narrative. In-person funerals have been cancelled or postponed due to physical distancing guidelines, which is no doubt, distinctly heart wrenching. Every emotion you’re feeling right now- pain, anger, frustration, sadness, anxiety, shock, guilt, confusion, helplessness is justified. You have every right to feel this way and mourn over your loss. Take your time. However, please don’t let these emotions consume you. Willingly or unwillingly, you will have to move forward in life. Right now, give yourself the time and space to heal. Take utmost care of yourself.

Covid-19 is a barbaric disease that has claimed the lives of millions, including of someone you love. There is no answer that can ever be good enough as to why the person that you loved so dearly had to die because of this virus. I know that you might be questioning yourself as to why them, why did they have to become a victim of this virus, why didn’t treatments work for them and why they couldn’t be saved when many others could. Although I do understand where you’re coming from, we urge you to not go down that unending rabbit hole for the sake of your own mental health.

Just know that you are not alone, we are all in this together, all of us. We will make it through this and one day this pandemic will end. We will live in a covid-free world. You will feel joy again. It is at this time that you will embrace all the beautiful memories that you shared with the person whom you lost. And maybe the world will begin to make sense again. Just hold on and stay strong.

Sending hope, possibility and love your way.

- Someone who is grieving just like you

---

Writer: Khushi Agrawal & Nishita Singh