In a bustling restaurant, known for its culinary delights, a renowned chef prepared his signature pulao using the finest rice. As the pulao cooked, its tantalizing aroma wafted through the air, making everyone’s mouth water with anticipation. The excitement was palpable as around a hundred guests eagerly awaited their turn to savour this delectable dish.

As the pulao was finally served, the crowd could hardly contain their enthusiasm. Plates were filled, and everyone was ready to take their first bite. Just then, the chef, with a concerned expression, addressed the diners. He revealed that despite his meticulous efforts, a small stone, indistinguishable from the rice grains, might have remained in the pulao. He urged everyone to be cautious while eating, as the stone could cause injury if bitten into.

The joyful atmosphere was suddenly subdued. The enticing aroma and the promise of a delightful meal were overshadowed by the lurking fear of the hidden stone. Each bite was taken with trepidation, the pleasure of the meal marred by anxiety. Conversations ceased, and a heavy silence enveloped the room. The camaraderie that had characterized the gathering faded, replaced by a collective focus on avoiding the stone.

Despite the exquisite taste of the pulao, the fun of eating was lost. Each diner carefully chewed their food, the joy of the meal replaced by a tense vigilance. The once lively and social atmosphere had turned into a silent trance, as everyone concentrated on avoiding potential harm. Bite after cautious bite, the meal progressed, the once-celebratory feast becoming an ordeal of wary consumption.

As the meal concluded, everyone breathed a sigh of relief, having escaped the dreaded stone. They washed their hands and began to discuss their experience. Someone realized that no one had actually encountered the stone. Curiosity piqued, and they called the chef to clarify.

The chef explained, “I had removed most of the stones, but I wanted to warn you just in case one had been missed.”

The diners exchanged glances, realizing how the mere suggestion of a stone had overshadowed the entire experience. The focus on the potential danger had drained the joy from what should have been a memorable meal.

This story is a poignant metaphor for our current reality amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Just like the stone in the pulao, the virus has introduced a pervasive sense of caution and fear into our lives. The ease of living has been replaced by constant vigilance. Every interaction and every transaction comes with a shadow of doubt. The simple pleasures of life are now accompanied by a silent apprehension.

The ease of living is gone. Even the helping hand which comes forward, we think will get the Coronavirus? Milkman, vegetable vendor, grocer… while buying every necessity of life, we are worrying what will come with it and this is how we are living our lives!

In the past, a sneeze would prompt a polite “God Bless,” but now it triggers anxiety about potential infection. This cautious way of living, much like the wary consumption of the pulao, has become our new normal. We do not know how long this will continue, and the uncertainty can be exhausting.

However, it is essential not to let this fear dominate our lives. Just as the diners missed out on enjoying the delicious pulao, we risk missing out on the joys of life. Instead of dwelling on negative news and posts, we should focus on positive and motivating content. Cultivate hobbies, find joy in small things, and maintain a positive outlook. By following COVID-appropriate behaviours and staying informed, we can navigate this challenging time with resilience.

Let’s not allow the stone in the pulao to rob us of our happiness. Embrace life with caution, but also with hope and positivity.