These are strange times. There can’t be much doubt about that. The Covid-19 pandemic is truly a global one, the likes of which most of us feel we would only ever see in a Hollywood movie.
Everything feels unprecedented. Non-essential travel is banned, barely everything is closed and we must all work from home where possible. New phrases have entered the national lexicon, such as ‘lockdown,’ ‘furlough,’ ‘social distancing,’ and ‘covidiots’ to name just a few.
As nearly all of society tries to get used to staying home, new trends and habits have come to pass. Unsurprisingly technology has come even more to the fore, with many reaching for Video calling as a means to stay in touch with the family and friends. Indeed, you’ve never really done video-calling until you’ve done it with your 87 year old Grandma, whose previous experience of anything with the word ‘video’ in was when she recorded the Eastenders Xmas special on a 1980s VHS recorder. Shared workout videos, celebrity or non, from various gardens around the country have aided the general vibe of health and togetherness promotions. Captain Tom Moore’s sponsored 100 lap journey of his garden has been the most high-profile case of charity that has caught the public imagination, to the tune of a staggering £27 million…(and counting)
Our favourite TV shows are now filmed according to social distancing regulations - Two presenters seemingly a mile apart on a sofa will be so 2020 when we look back in years - and without the de rigeur applause and laughter of a live studio audience. Who knew it would seem so eerie and amateurish when you removed that?
Closer to home, (if we can get any closer) many families have been digging out the old jigsaws and boardgames, long since banished to the attic. Children across the nation must be bemused beyond belief as to what on earth these crusty old relics are. (The games, not the owners) Indeed, some say the lost art of conversation has been resurrected as families talk to each other more than ever before. It’s also provided a golden chance for the younger generation to enjoy some of the great television from yesteryear - There’s a silver lining with every cloud! There has generally been a real sense of community, togetherness and shared concern around society and this has really served to lift us all.
Of course, our NHS receives constant (and deserved) gratitude and prayers. Their courage and dedication has truly led the way and our unique Health service has never made us more proud.Of course there is fear and uncertainty all over - Plans have fallen by the wayside and no-one really knows what is on the horizon. But along the way, something quite special is also emerging. The British Bulldog spirit is back!
During the dark days of the Blitz in World War II, that ‘We Shall Not Be Moved’ stiff-upper lip British resolve was at its height. That stoic generation refused to be bowed by fear and misery, insisting on a policy of dry optimism and gallows humour where necessary. Singalongs in bomb shelters, housewives putting out washing defiantly in the midst of ruined, bomb-shredded buildings were just a couple of the ways the British public flicked a collective ‘V’ sign at the Nazis and at fear in general. As we speak, the methods may have changed (smiley face flags are more the modern way!) but the intention and spirit has not. Events like the current pandemic, as truly ghastly and tragic as they are, can bring out the patriotism and pride in people. Just a glance down any typical British street will demonstrate this, as numerous patriotic flags and bunting flutters with pride. Union Jack flags fly proudly and defiantly. Scottish Smiley Face flags state their feelings well, a refusal to buckle. Never has the recent slogan ‘Keep Calm & Carry On’ felt more relevant than now. It is exactly what we need now more than ever. Display your agreement with this calming principle by waving it high!
Also Friday May 8th sees the 75th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day. Sadly the traditional mass public celebrations are almost certain to be affected by the lockdown regulations, (a rescheduled date in Mid-August to coincide with VJ Day has been mooted) but there is absolutely no reason it cannot all still be done in spirit on May 8th! AFter all, the Government moved the Bank Holiday for it!!
Many will be displaying their VE Day flags from their own homes and rightly so - If they can win a World War, we can still show our gratitude, lockdown or not!
This is just the kind of legacy we can all take away from this dreadful pandemic, once it ends...And it will end. If nothing else, we have all had a huge reminder as to the real priorities in life and must heed those wake-up calls. But for now, let’s all Keep Calm and Carry On, 2020-style!