Living in the world today certainly requires us to have at least a degree of resilience. In particular for the way we deal with the current pandemic.
Initially I found being in lock down somewhat a relief as it meant I had permission — not sure why I felt I needed that — to step back from the merry-go-round of life. I didn’t have to rush around to meet obligations, appointments or to fulfill the perceived needs of others. I could just chill and take care of myself. Plus I felt that I was doing the right thing by my community and helping stop the spread of the virus.
Phase two was the clean up. I cleared out cupboards, re-organised and discarded things I didn’t need anymore. That felt great too, as I was able to do stuff I’d wanted to for a long time. It was cleansing. So phases one and two were really good for my mental and physical health.
Phase three came much later and that was when I began to feel a little bit deprived. Yes I know it is still helping my community and I understand that it is necessary because the alternative is absolutely horrific. But my resilience is being stretched now that we are in lock down number five or is it six? I don’t really know anymore.
To be fair, living in regional Victoria I’ve had it fairly good in regards to locking down. We haven’t had quite the severity of rules that those in metro Melbourne have had — and still do. Yes I can go to the supermarket which seems like my only choice of outings these days. (I can go for a walk, in fact I really need to go for a daily walk but lately it is either raining or too windy — thank goodness.) Also I can work in the garden, get some fresh air and feel productive at the same time. And hopefully in a few weeks time I will be eating some of the fruits of my labour.
One of my biggest challenges is not being able to see my newest grandchild growing. I’m told he is now beginning to chatter — baby talk of course and when I last saw him he was starting to smile in recognition of the adoring slaves surrounding him.
Another thing that is of growing concern to me is the propaganda being sprouted in the media at present. The idea that some “journalists” and television presenters are willing to use the suicide figures to score perceived political points is totally abhorrent.
Yesterday I saw figures quoted by a Murdoch media television presenter — citing an increase in the suicide figures and using lock downs as the reason. In actual fact the suicide numbers are down a little on previous years. She also misquoted how numbers had increased when we had only had nine days of lock down for that period of time. Then there is the hue and cry about how many of our young people are presenting to hospital with mental health issues.
I think it is a good thing that they are asking for help — and I wish Kelly had sought more help twenty one years ago. She did seek help, but it was limited at that time. At least today parents of children who are struggling mentally can feel more comfortable that there is some help available. And whilst it is sad that people are suffering with mental health issues, there is help available which is a far better alternative to deciding which coffin to buy.
So my wish is for the “journalists” to ask leaders questions which are not related to political point scoring, but rather about finding and presenting true facts.