I don't remember exactly when I first understood the importance of the word "vaccine." But I remember clearly when everything came to a standstill due to Covid-19, everyone in our family seemed to be divided into two groups upon hearing the name of the vaccine. On one side were those who said "This vaccine is actually a business, taking it will make your body sick." And on the other side were we, who pored over papers and pens, reading videos and reports, trying to understand—why this vaccine was needed, what science says.
My mother was initially reluctant to get vaccinated. She would say, "I've been fine like this since childhood. Wouldn't it be a problem if I put something new into my body?" I tried to convince her in my own way—just as an umbrella protects us from getting wet in the rain, vaccines increase our immunity. This vaccine is the result of years of hard work by scientists, doctors, and researchers. But my mother's fear was based on faith—"Even if you believe in science, your body is your own." I respected her fear.
There is a saying that is very common in our society—“Faith is very powerful.” But I say, “There is nothing more powerful than fear.” When it comes to vaccination, many people make decisions based on fear and rumors. One said, face became distorted after getting vaccinated.” Another said, “The government is implanting microchips.” Even though I laugh at this, I know that these words are very real fears for many.
Still, I got vaccinated because I believe in science. And I experienced it myself—when everyone around me was getting sick, I also got infected, but nothing happened except a mild fever. And my mother? It took a long time to convince her, but finally, when a close relative of hers was admitted to the hospital, my mother suddenly said, “You make an appointment for me to get vaccinated.” I laughed quietly. No science, no logic a real event changed her belief.
Those of us who have been vaccinated know—this is not magic. This is a silent, patient work of science. Vaccines don't just prevent disease, they are a key to returning to our normal lives. You don't just have to believe it, you have to know it, you have to understand it.
My mother now proudly says about the vaccine, "I did well, I took you at your word." I laugh and say, "That wasn't my word, Mom, that was science."