Toft's Thoughts

COVID-19 has taken a back seat the past few weeks as we shift our focus to the injustices of our fellow humans.

It's sick that there is still a debate about which lives matter. Yes, all lives do matter, but that's not what needs to be said right now. The Black Lives Matter movement is to stress and highlight that black lives do matter, especially amidst the trials, persecution and injustices they have faced for decades and centuries.

That they matter; that's it. That's all the movement asks. They aren't asking for them to matter more, just that they matter at all. I'm just so sorry this discussion is still having to be had.

This shouldn't even be up for debate. They are humans. They are the same as each of us. They are worth the same as each of us in God's eyes and that is truly how we need to be looking at this. They matter and we can surely do better as a human race at treating each other with respect, dignity and lots of love. It's our duty and honor to love one another as we wish others would love us. That's it. It's such a simple rule of thumb to follow. Let's do better together.

That is, of course, easier said than done. This movement wasn't started yesterday and we have decades more of work to do in this department. However, if we lead with grace, compassion, empathy, lots of love and simply show up to the conversation, then we can all make a positive difference together and will be doing good.

As if watching the human race spiral into complete indecency wasn't enough, COVID-19 is still prevalent. I now know of two individuals that have been diagnosed with the virus: One with diarrhea, vomiting and fever; the other completely asymptomatic. Both are practicing social distancing guidelines and doing their part in staying away from society almost altogether. Both are clueless as to where they could've gotten it from and how on earth they even have it.

Just as the world opens up from COVID-19 shutdowns, the world begins to seize and shut-down due to the ache felt from an entire race. Humanity as a whole is aching now.

I think most decent humans understand and desire to give love and receive love. That's a basic human desire and need.

I have faith in humanity correcting the character flaws that have led us to this disgraceful place. I have faith in our communities that are brimming with such amazing people of strong ethics, grace, love, compassion and unwavering faith.

I see a bright future – an even better one for our babies. If we can pick up these broken pieces and make a beautiful mosaic of love and decency, then we will be just fine.

I pray that this is true and that God fills our hearts with understanding, our souls with love and kindness, our communities and spirits with positive change, and our future with a brightness that outshines this darkness. God has the whole world in His hands. Thank goodness.

Sentinel-News contributor Iesha Toft lives in Royal.