REFLECTIONS ON COVID

Taking time to push the reset button

It’s almost impossible not be reflective after a 14-day self isolation. My wife, Myna, and I are both 74 years old, born and raised in Canada, and have been married for more than 54 years. We are healthy and were able to stay at home, thanks to others who are working during this pandemic. Almost immediately, we were aware that we weren’t really in charge. Our son and daughter had kept us informed of the situation and relayed the message that it was time for us to return to Canada from California.

During our quarantine, we listened to daily reports from B.C.’S Premier John Horgan and Health Minister Adrian Dix. Dr. Bonnie Henry greeted us daily with an update. The Prime Minister also made daily briefings and Dr. Theresa Tam became a familiar face. On occasion, I would “invite” Chris Hadfield over for a chat (via You Tube). He has credibility and a very quiet demeanour. He also has a lot of information and experience regarding isolation, and consequently made some very good suggestions.

I listened to a health webinar, where, for the first time ever, someone wasn’t trying to sell me something. On Facebook, I saw very talented people, both young and old, using music to lift their spirits. I will admit to having a tear in my eye when I saw a woman in a nursing home being visited by a couple. All three were singing amid this crisis and it seemed therapeutic for them, and for me as well.

I have been playing the bagpipes longer than my wife and I have been together. Myna, thankfully, enjoys them. Her most frequent request is that I play “Outside and Far Away.” I get it. Bagpipes are currently referred to as the ultimate social distancing instrument. After two days of pacing in the basement and pretending to be interested in filing and sorting pictures, I picked up my pipes and played for an hour or so. When I came upstairs I was calm, I can’t say why, but I had gone to one of my “happy places.” I also realized that I could play outside as a tribute to health care workers.

Our family has three health care workers in Victoria, and I was becoming more acutely aware of some of the issues and concerns for all health care professionals. The tribute has broadened and I have been joined by neighbours and bandmates as we make some noise every evening at 7 p.m. We play to recognize all essential services, front line workers, truckers, grocery store workers and many unsung heroes.

When we look back on the things we thought were important before COVID-19, although most still are, I think that this virus has offered an opportunity for a reset. I know I am not alone in this regard. Our days are full with time scheduled for exercise and the remainder filled with reading and meals, while Myna spends time sketching, and I devote my time to music or photography projects.

For Myna and me, the best times are when we are touching base with friends or family through Zoom or on the telephone; or simply enjoying a game of cards together. We are still washing our hands a lot, and still respecting social distancing rules, but we are staying connected.