By COLlive reporter
Amid the doom and gloom of the coronavirus, Chabad of Hong Kong is working ‘overtime’ to support members of the community who have chosen to stay. Although face masks have become the new norm and the streets are relatively empty, a full house ‘Young Pro Shabbat Dinner’ was enjoyed this past week, along with Tu B’Shvat events for children and adults. Fun-days are organized for the children who are out of school due to government instructed closures.
As bad as it is in Hong Kong, the situation in the Mainland is significantly more desperate with the number of confirmed cases escalating each day. With the departure of most Jewish residents and many cities in semi lockdown, some Chabad centers have had to evacuate the Shluchim families.
As a result, the Shluchim in China are facing incredible financial challenges. A relief effort, led by Head Shliach to China Rabbi Mordechai Avtzon has been underway with emergency funds being raised from supporters around the world to alleviate the financial worries of the Shluchim.
Taking a break from his fundraising efforts, Rabbi and Goldie Avtzon welcomed the ground staff of El Al Airlines in Hong Kong this week. Mr. Yehuda Amos, Security Manager, was looking for a way to inspire his staff whose morale has been battered by the panic caused by the Corona Virus. Coming on the heels of the protests earlier this year, he felt that they needed a boost of positivity.
After sharing a story of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson and how she related her father’s teaching that everything one experiences should serve as an impetus for something positive, the Avtzons told the group that the question of “Why is this happening?” should be replaced by “What can I learn from this” and “What can I do”?”
The El Al staff members were then invited to present facts about the virus and then proceeded to brainstorm inspirations from each fact. (See below a sampling of their inspiration).
This event also included the presentation of medical gear (that is in short supply) to the Matilda Hospital, donated by Magen David Adom in Israel, via Chabad of China.
In the meantime, for Rabbi Avtzon, its back to the telephone to drum up support for his fellow Shluchim who have been displaced by the current situation.
If you would like to take part in this effort, visit www.chabadchinanews.org/Donate
CORONA INSPIRATION
FACT: The Coronavirus spreads especially quickly.
LIFE LESSON: Changes in life often happen quickly. One must stay ahead of his/her game.
FACT: Not everything that can be eaten should be eaten.
LIFE LESSON: Be careful with what you allow into your life. Not every experience that is available is healthy.
FACT: The shape of the virus is a crown – hence the name Corona. This name has led to many jokes and memes
LIFE LESSON: Even in difficult situations, one must keep an upbeat mood. Happiness is half the cure.
FACT: The virus is spread quickly amongst humans. Once it is shared it cannot be taken back.
LIFE LESSON: Rumors and gossip also spread very quickly among people. Once a word is spoken it cannot be taken back.
FACT: The virus was spread in a particular building because new pipes were installed that did not fit the original code.
LIFE LESSON: Sometimes “old” is good and not everything needs to be updated and modernized.
FACT: There has been a shortage of masks and this has brought out much kindness in some people as they try to help others get what they need.
LIFE LESSON: Difficult situations can bring out the best in people.
