Page 4 - Al-Rashed Newsletter April 2021

POTPOURRI
SLEEPWALKING INTO EXCLUSION

A COVID-19 AFTERMATH

After brushing off the first reported cases of Covid-19 as another incident of an outbreak that could be
easily contained, my day started with a positive note. But that did not deter me from submitting my hands
and face to frequent ablutions. Was I gradually stepping into the clutches of OCD (Obsessive Compulsive
Disorder)?

A few months have passed, and the mortality rates only seem to soar proportionately with the reported
cases. Just imagine a microbe calling the shots at the highest evolved species on earth! Paranoia had
already set in.

Each of us is paranoid of the other, wary of shaking hands, not to speak of ducking the hugs. Had we
hugged or shook hands with one another, the microbe would have certainly made its way in, gnawing at
everything available. Better to be an introvert than a martyr. Being an introvert has helped ward off the
microbe to a certain extent, but networking has taken a beating. The transforming workplace has been a
poignant reminder of the evolving future of work. Interactions being more virtual than one-to-one, with
emotions being sidelined. All to be the replica of Mr. Spock (Star Trek-commanding officer-half human),
with emotions overpowered by the intellect.

Exotic places and romantic destinations suddenly lost charm. The global village notwithstanding, sleeping
in one place and waking up in another is now, the old norm. Hugs and kisses, which were once PDAs
(read Public Display of Affection), are now lethal munitions. But mother nature seems to be happier than
ever before. Waking up to the chirping of birds which was once a fantasy, has become a reality. The earth,
air, water, and sky tell me -‘We are absolutely fine without you. If you ever come back unscathed,
you will be our guests. Not Masters.’

SUDHEER KURUP
SR. EXECUTIVE, VESSEL AGENCY

MR. GOLDY CHADHA
KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER