This is in our minds, but when we say it or type it then it becomes real. Good reminder Archie.
A work colleague was talking about his grandmother in Texas who was ill from covid and hoping she would be OK around a morning coffee/tea break. 2 other colleagues were there, one an Indian, the other was from Sudan (passport), but is ethnic Ethiopian and most of his family is in the Tigray region of Ethiopia.
Indian gentlemen - He said in a roundabout way, hope for the best and prepare for the worst. However, the worst is more than he ever imagined as he lost both his mom, dad, last living grandparent, brother & sister in-law along w/ 2 of their 5 kids, within a month of each other due to covid. They had to cremate the bodies on the street and he couldn't go back due to travel restrictions. I was stunned and saddened for him as I don't even want to imagine, just give my sympathy.
Sudanese friend - Most are in Ethiopia and he can't get consistent communication with them as the government pulled the plug on internet/phone etc. to the entire region for most of the last year plus. I knew he lost relatives, but no idea the extent. He has lost 8 of his 9 brothers/sisters, 14 of his 20 nieces/nephews since the pandemic started, unfortunately not from the pandemic. They were not in any army, but were killed. He didn't go into the details, but if you know what has been happening there it is horrific.
RIP to all and keeps my concerns in perspective.