We have all been paying close attention to the daily briefings from our national and state leaders highlighting the critical medical and technical resources needed to flatten the coronavirus infection curve. During this time, I have had the good fortune to consult with another group of experts – members of New York’s faith community. In conversations with leaders of various faiths, I was reminded that whenever New Yorkers have faced a crisis — faith, gratitude and compassionate action have always guided the path to victory. These values are indispensable as we fight a current pandemic of both disease and fear.
Whether or not you consider yourself spiritual or religious, I think we can all agree that a positive attitude enhances healing. For me that starts with an attitude of gratitude. I am so grateful to be a New Yorker in the midst of this storm. I am grateful for the fact that, more than 60,000 New Yorkers have stepped forward in response to Governor Cuomo’s call for a volunteer surge health care workforce and more than 10,000 mental health professionals have voluntarily signed up to provide online mental health services for people who need it.
My gratitude also extends to all the doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers who are literally risking their lives to save ours, and to the EMT’s and paramedics who are tirelessly responding to an unprecedented number of calls. Police officers and first responders, accustomed to running towards danger, now face an added invisible adversary. The people who work in our neighborhood grocery stores and pharmacies are taking heroic risks to provide the food and medicines we need. We not only owe them our gratitude, they also deserve our support to make sure they have the resources and personal protective equipment they need.
As the coronavirus rages, the high holy days of Easter, Passover, and Ramadan are upon us. Traditional family and community gatherings are not possible this year, but these holidays teach us about resurrection, redemption and renewal. The uplifting power of faith can soothe our fears and anxiety during these uncertain times, and comfort us as we face our future together in confidence.
The declaration to, “Fear Not,” appears in the scriptures of every faith. In this moment, it is imperative that we not allow ourselves to fall victim to the virus of fear. While it is natural to fear the unknown, it is much more empowering to find ways to channel those feelings through the power of faith, service and love. I see those values springing to action once again as New Yorkers come together, in big and small ways, to combat the virus and alleviate the suffering of others.
Some may wonder why a State Government official is talking about faith at a time like this. But, everyone who knows me understands that I am first a woman of faith. I have always received strength and guidance from my own church and New York’s diverse faith communities, especially in times like this.
To the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives, please know that we mourn with you and hold you in a circle of love, support and prayer. As we confront this historic crisis, I take comfort in the super-human efforts of the doctors, nurses and EMT’s who are working around the clock to save lives. I am also grateful for the collective wisdom of faith leaders and the soulful compassion and resilience of so many New Yorkers. Remember, “This too shall pass.”
Letitia James is New York State Attorney General
