Being civilized, in my opinion, consists of being aware that we live in a society and understanding that the basic rules of coexistence exist, for the common good of all. Being civic is something similar, but without understanding the why and why. Cívico is the neighbor who, in these times of confinement, denounces any pedestrian for the simple act of walking down the street. Civilized is one who respects, advises, educates, practices by example and understands the singularities of each person. Being civil is easy, it consists of simply complying with rules. A sheep can be civil. Being civilized requires more effort and a lot of empathy.
These days of pandemic bring out the best and worst in us. We can all become heroes and we can all be sheep. It's our decision. We see citizens who sacrifice their health with blood, sweat and tears and we also see idiots who insult people who walk their dogs. This daily duality also exists in the socio-political context. Because of this pandemic, I know that, somehow, everything is going to change. I don't know the extent of this paradigm shift, I don't think anyone does. But I can guess where the shots are going.
More than ever I realize how essential it is to have a much stronger public health system, how important empathy and solidarity are. That globalization not only brings Coca-Cola to Burundi, but also spreads the bug around the world. That borders and walls are not impermeable and that I am not the center of the world. It scares me to think that this virus is not only going to take the lives of many beings, but it is also going to destroy our individual freedoms.
These days we see political leaders adopt warlike language against the coronavirus and, yes, I understand that a very tough battle is being fought, but I believe that there is a much more dangerous war brewing and in which it is necessary, more than ever, that All of us involved are consciously “civilized.” This war is not against a virus (the terrible trigger). It is the war between those who pursue a more civilized (conscious), more supportive, open and cultured society, against those who, taking advantage of this tragedy and using the "civics", will want to impose a despotic, segregated and uninformed society.
In these times we have to wash our hands and lock ourselves at home, but it is of no use if we do not build a better world.
Published in La Voz de Asturias.
