Letter: The life of every single human being is essential
To the editor,
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1-7
I refuse to live in fear, and I will speak up for those who cannot, even if it means being disliked by some, even if it means losing friends or family. I will be uncomfortable. I will feel the pain. I will acknowledge your suffering and fight for your freedom.
To the people who have lost, or are worried about losing their businesses, their pride and joy, that they created with their blood, sweat and tears, worked so incredibly hard for, and don’t know what their livelihood would be without them: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the people who have lost their jobs, and cannot put food on the table for themselves or their families, and feel less than, worthless, helpless, inadequate, and full of despair: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the single moms who are not allowed to take their children into the store, or who are shamed for doing so, who are feeling overwhelmed and anxious, and struggling to stay sane with no help at home: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the people who are trapped in a home with an addict, in utter anguish, fearing for their safety, and the safety of their loved ones: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the children who miss their school friends, or are getting abused as a result of being at home full time with caretakers who cannot handle or love them properly: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the people who are battling depression and suicidal thoughts, and are feeling more hopeless and isolated than ever: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the people whose possibly life-saving surgeries have been canceled, for themselves or their loved ones: Even in your silence, I hear you.
To the man hanging out daily at the Atascadero lake, stumbling with his canes, who has no friends or family, and whose only connection before this was the fellowship with God and the people at church, which has now been taken from him, and every person feeling utterly lost and alone like him: Even in your silence, I hear you.
The life of every single human being is essential. I love you. I will speak up for you.
Amanda Hawkins
Atascadero
See related story: COVID-19: Stand for Freedom rally planned in Paso Robles on May 1
Editor’s note: Letters to the editor are personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Paso Robles Daily News or its staff. We welcome letters from local residents regarding relevant local topics. To submit one, click here.
