In light of this Covid-19 pandemic a lot of our freedoms were placed under threat. As a nation we needed to comply with the guidelines, as individuals we were faced with various challenges operating under these circumstances. When Trinidad & Tobago was placed under further restrictions to only essential services operational, there were a lot of mixed emotions. The panic set in for some and the calm for others. Essential services were limited to basically groceries, pharmacies, hardwares, financial and medical institutions.
”1. We do not need a lot to thrive
The lockdown forced me to take deeper look into what I needed versus what I wanted. I had a lot planned for this year, place to go people to see, things to buy but all this was suddenly placed on indefinite hold.
The lockdown allowed me to get a deeper understanding of needs and wants. What I came to realize is I did not really need a lot to survive, the important things and more so people became very apparent. The lockdown gave me the space to reassess areas in my life that normally would have been ignored in the clutter of daily life. Taking a simpler approach to life and understanding what is truly important gives a calm and peace of mind. Granted this state of restrictions cannot be sustained indefinitely for many reasons, however the time we had to operate in that space gave me time to pause and reflect. What we need to get by on a daily basis, what is truly important… You don’t need a lot to enjoy life, more on this later on.
”2. Innovation and creativity allows us to thrive
With all the uncertainty, restrictions and social distancing guidelines, we were forced to ramp up our innovation and creativity as a nation… Long awaited solutions such as work from home, online shopping and curbside pick up of groceries were now the norm. Technological advances and human innovation allowed businesses owners and companies to put various systems to support staff and customers during this unprecedented time. Further our general population became creative in experimenting with favourite local street foods that were now unavailable and we missed dearly. There was the continual coverage of the many attempt at doubles, fried chicken and burgers… many a home made chef was born during this time. Those who were were into gardening was able to focus their energy on cultivating beautiful gardens for both produce and flora. The DJs and musicians got creative with live sound clash on social media… the lockdown forced us to challenge and seek alternatives to the methods we became accustomed to as the status quo and afforded us the privilege to break the bonds of old school thinking and
”3. We need to find a balance between nature and modern life
Our direct impact on nature became apparent during this lockdown, because of the various restrictions worldwide, resulting in fewer vehicles on the roads, reduction in emissions from industries, there are cases where pollution levels have dropped. Nature is getting a brief chance to cleanse itself from the long term damages we have been doing. Finding that right balance between enjoying modern living and preserving nature is even more important going forward to sustain the delicate ecosystem we are part of.
”4. We are social creatures
While we do not need a lot to survive and thrive, one thing is clear…. We definitely need our internet, social media and our phones. Now seriously, while technology offers us methods to stay connected in this social distancing norm it can never replace human interaction. We are by nature social creatures. For those of us who are with loved ones, this is truly a blessing, cherish each moment and realize that this is most important. Slow down, stop relax and enjoy your time at home with loved ones. For those of us who live alone, be mindful of your emotions and if you feel overwhelmed and isolated, reach out to loved ones…. If you know persons who live alone please check in on them, make sure they feel connected and love. While social distancing are the new norm we must follow, fact is it is unnatural for social creatures. If you have challenges try positive avenues to express creativity and clear any frustrations; try art, writing, meditation, music, dance and cooking…. These activities puts us in an uplifted frame of mind and brings us calm and peace in a much critical time of our existence.
Keep strong, stay safe and know that we will rise above this dark time.
