Let’s not go back to our old ways once this is over

For many of us, life has slowed down drastically over the past three weeks as the country adjusted to the new reality that is the coronavirus.

It has slowed down in the sense that the streets and village squares are mostly quiet now, the playgrounds are deserted, and the bars and restaurants are shuttered down.

Many of us who are able to work from home are quickly becoming accustomed to these new circumstances and, in the meantime, we have come to appreciate simple things that we took for granted before the crisis.

Things like spending time at home with loved ones. While some of us would grumble and say they might go crazy if they spend another day inside with their partners, the fact is that many people did not spend as much time as they should have with their families up until three weeks ago.

Life in general has become too fast, too workcentred, and the change of pace is one we should cherish and make the most of, because it won’t last forever.

But when that time comes, it would be good for all of us to hold on to some of the positive things that have been brought about by the ‘stay at home’ situation.

The health authorities, for example, have been using the social media to give ideas of simple games that parents can play with their young ones. One example is using a small rubber ball and some empty detergent bottles to play a DIY version of bowling. Being creative and actually spending some quality time with our children is something which should be done not only in time of crisis but in normal times too.

The same goes for those of us who regularly video call our parents and other family members. How is it that we did not find time to keep in touch before?

Here’s another example: many fitness instructors are livestreaming fitness classes, and many people are actually following them and joining in. The aim is to not only keep fit, but also to stay busy, distracted and mentally healthy. But do we need a crisis to actually start looking after our health and wellbeing? Should we not always strive to be in top shape?

There are other things that we have come to appreciate now and should keep appreciating after the COVID-19 pandemic blows over.

Everyone has by now realised how quieter it is out there, how cleaner the streets are and how fresher the air is. Now, traffic will obviously return once this all blows over, and so will the planes flying noisily overhead. That is something we have no control over. But we should at least use this newfound appreciation for the environment that surrounds us, not just as individuals but as a nation, and try to care for our country as much as possible. Let’s try to avoid a return to the noisy, dirty country that we have become so used to.

It is also very important that, in post-COVID19 times we do not forget the vital role being played by our doctors and nurses, by our police officers, soldiers and firefighters, and by the countless volunteers who are also doing their part in this time of need.

Most importantly, we must not forget how this crisis has brought our communities together and how it has highlighted our sense of generosity and our need to help. Let us try to hold on to this spirit even in post-pandemic times.