The cost of freedom

Where to begin, what to do to fill the void made by the sudden and frightening, global invasion of a deadly disease.

Simmering questions many, as yet, unanswered. Is this World War3, (no shots fired) the rumblings heralding a new World Order, or just a nasty head cold, like no other. Did it happen by accident in some far off laboratory or was it pushed? In the meantime, life goes on. The hypnotic and repetitive speak, stay in your bubble; wash your hands; keep your distance; be kind, paralyses the brain.

I glance around me and see everyone is swaying mindlessly to the same dreary tune.

Level 4 and beyond looms overhead like a dark cloud - the future seems uncertain. It is apparent that a routine and a measure of discipline is necessary during this lengthy period.

Keep busy, the time will pass quickly. So, I habitually rise early, walk approximately three kms, breathe deeply and get some fresh air into my lungs. Variations to this routine remains very likely, and without doubt, extremely probable.

I know intimately the irregularities of contour in my bubble block that could tip me over the edge, and try to ignore the poor state of some footpaths, parked cars across the walkway and the sudden barking of dogs hidden from view. I thoroughly enjoy this wonderful, all too-short but sweet, sense of freedom.

I scan for a meaningfulness pastime. While assisting a flatmate to clean door handles and light switches with a tiny sterilised wipe, a sweet young lady - who shall remain nameless, asked me to clean a smear from one of the foyer’s numerous windows - the onlooker has the advantage and sees the wide screen, which at that moment was not my focus.

I declined to use the minuscule and sterile cloth I had in my hand. However, the line is cast. I am hooked. Her request gives me the opportunity to do something purposeful, at this unique time, in a residential setting that I appreciate and enjoy - pastime window cleaning, in doable doses, begins. The outcome is positive. The levels have lowered; the sun shines supreme; our earthly bubble spins in infinite space.

After extended weeks of control and restrictions, I struggle to remember - is this the way it used to be?