The harsh embrace

Dr Fahim Chand | Monday November 13, 2023 06:00

This one blueprint was intricately woven into my DNA and whispered directives to my psyche to obey all imprinted rules. Hence my entire existence had settled into a state of self-preservation.

My racing heartbeat, once a frenzied symphony of life’s urgency, gracefully transitioned into a more measured rhythm and my mind embarked on a journey beyond the world of health care. The room lay cloaked in a profound stillness as the frigid caress of the air conditioner permeated the room. I removed my clinic gown and gathered my keys and belongings. The countdown spiralled to zero as I turned off the light. It was Friday and the promise of a leisurely weekend hung palpably in the air. As I stepped out the door, a cascade of unrelenting scorching heat enveloped my body. Though I had seen the WhatsApp circulating from the always vigilant Meteorological Services of Botswana warning of a heat wave advancing through the region, I remained unprepared for its ferocious intensity.

As I started my car, the air conditioner responded with a reviving blast of icy relief. The temperature gauge betrayed the grim tale outside, pointing to a 39 degrees Celsius narrative that raged in the unforgiving atmosphere outside. I drove homeward, serenaded by the eclectic tunes curated by Apple’s iTunes music algorithm. The decibel level inside my vehicle remained predictably elevated, but it was all part of the weekly ritual. As the clock marked another Friday, I navigated my way into the familiar parking lot of Phakalane Spar, with a particular purchase in mind — a copy of the newspaper, one that held a personal column bearing my name. Exiting the sanctuary of my air-conditioned car, I was immediately greeted by the harsh embrace of the outside world. Just as the car door closed, my eyes landed on a gentleman making a direct beeline toward me. His attire seemed ill-fitted and shabby, but his face bore a warm, inviting smile, unable to conceal the underlying determination that animated his gaze. He greeted me heartily, then presented his offering on this sweltering day — a pair of wiper blades. With a polite refusal, I conveyed my lack of need for these, initiating a friendly exchange where he made his case with charming persistence.

Eventually, he accepted the fact that my vehicle would function adequately with its current wiper blades, waiting patiently under the merciful shade for his next potential customer. As I glanced his way, the stark reality of his challenging circumstances became evident. Beads of sweat glistened on his forehead, a stark contrast to the cool, air-conditioned comfort I had just left behind. Despite his struggles, his face continued to radiate kindness, the brightness of his smile undiminished. In the face of his adversities, I looked skyward and silently thanked God for the fortune in my own life. Mentally, I added a second item to my shopping list. Upon leaving the store, my cherished Mmegi newspaper nestled under my arm, I called out to the wiper blade salesman. He seemed taken aback by the attention but quickly approached. Extending my hand, I offered the second item I had procured and said: “This is for you, my friend.” His eyes sparkled, and his perpetual smile grew even wider as he accepted the ice-cold Coca-Cola. Even his nearby friends rose and smiled. I hoped the refreshing beverage would offer some respite from the searing heat on this trying day. A surge of joy enveloped me as I watched from a distance, seeing him savour the drink. It was a small gesture, yet I prayed it had injected a bit of brightness into his day. Observing this encounter, one couldn’t help but ponder the generosity of nations and individuals as we collectively gaze upon our planet. The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) is a leading charity operating in the UK and internationally. CAF has been producing a World Giving Index (WGI) for more than a decade.

This index measures the giving behaviour of 119 countries, representing more than 90% of the global population. It is a remarkable tool for gauging the heart of humanity’s generosity, is a yearly testament to the profound impact of altruism on a global scale. This index goes beyond mere economic indicators; it delves into the core of human empathy, measuring people’s willingness to give their time, money, and aid to those in need. It celebrates the nations where compassion flows freely, touching the lives of countless individuals.

But which countries led the way? In 2021, an encouraging surge in charitable contributions was witnessed, with a growing number of individuals opening their hearts and wallets to make a difference. Notably, New Zealand stood proudly as the fifth most generous nation globally, with neighbouring Australia securing the fourth position. The USA claimed the third spot, while Kenya, a fellow African nation, showcased the boundless benevolence residing in the hearts of our continent, securing the second position. Remarkably, for the fifth consecutive year, Indonesia retained its title as the most generous nation on earth. A heartfelt congratulations is in order for my brother-in-law, Piyush Sharma, who, amidst his lawyering responsibilities, serves as an honorary consul for the Asian giants. The WGI is a call to action — a call to strengthen our commitment to a world where generosity knows no borders.