A Journal of the Plague Year, Day 1.

Summary

The author reflects on the early days of the pandemic, expressing gratitude for personal growth, family, community, and nature, while also commenting on societal issues and the potential for positive change.

Abstract

In "A Journal of the Plague Year, Day 1," the author, a former crisis writer, resumes their reflections during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the grim circumstances, they reveal an inherent optimism, appreciating the extra time with family, the resilience of their husband, and the clarity on what truly matters. The author also acknowledges the potential for societal solidarity in the face of the pandemic and cherishes the cleaner environment and the companionship of a new puppy. They ponder on the future, questioning whether these positive aspects will persist post-pandemic and invite readers to continue following their journey in the subsequent day's entry.

Opinions

The author identifies as a congenital optimist, consistently finding the positive in challenging situations.
They express deep gratitude for their husband's presence and resilience, hinting at past hardships and a lack of recognition from British society.
The author values the newfound perspective on what is truly important in life, emphasizing the significance of family, community, and nature.
They see the pandemic as an opportunity for the UK to come together post-Brexit and recognize its interconnectedness with European neighbors.
The author appreciates the environmental improvements, such as cleaner air and empty skies, and is hopeful about the potential for lasting change.
The new puppy is seen as a source of comfort and sanity during the isolating times ahead.

March 19th, 2020

Our pandemic puppy (Anna da Silva)

For many years I made my living writing about crises afflicting other countries. I hung up my professional pen a while back and have found my way to another, wonderful career. But now feels like the time to pick that pen up again. What to call these reflections?

A journal of the Plague Year

Musings on a glass half full

Keep calm and Corona on…

I have realised that I am a congenital optimist. I am wired somehow, always to look on the bright side and see the opportunity in any situation, however grim. And I have witnessed, and experienced, plenty of grim. Right now feels like a time to embrace optimism. So here are a few things that I am grateful for at this time:

The gift of time. For family, community, creativity, reflection.

The gift of my husband. Anything that we are about to live through is as nothing compared to everything that he has already survived. I cannot imagine anyone better equipped to have by my side at this time. Our British society has never valued him, has never had the imagination or empathy to understand his achievements. With terrible consequences for him and us. Maybe now is his time.

The gift of perspective. On what and who really matters.

The gift of solidarity. If anything can pull our country back together in the aftermath of Brexit, and show how interconnected we are with our European neighbours, perhaps this is it.

The gift of clean air, empty skies, and the chance for everyone to connect more with nature. I wonder how long that will last when things start to revert to “normal”.

The puppy! I think she might keep us all sane in the weeks to come. And even if we can’t hug each other we can still hug her.

To read more, please see:

A Journal of the Plague Year, Day 1.

March 19th, 2020

A Journal of the Plague Year, Day 2: The Gift of Perspective

20 March 2020