Coping with Coronavirus
Thursday, 9th April 2020
Coping with Coronavirus
Lockdown is not easy when you are on your own. But then, isn’t it difficult for everyone. However, I am beginning to appreciate the benefit of having observed rules during the 33 years of my convent life. From the age of fourteen, my life was regulated by a routine of work, prayer and various other activities. Was that also lockdown?
I am, of course, obeying the present rules recommended by the Government. As a seventy-five year old who has survived cancer and inevitably has a few of the other ailments that are common to many people of my age, I am deemed vulnerable. Consequently, I have stopped going out to shop. Neighbours, on either side of my terraced home and the dentist son of a long time friend, have volunteered to purchase the food that I need. For this, I feel both guilty and grateful particularly because they are key workers who also attend to their parents needs.
As soon as this period of restriction was prescribed, I immediately established a routine that I aim to follow. I am continuing to write my third novel, play my ukulele, read, sing and engage in a little yoga and a daily walk. I do the usual clothes washing, cleaning and gardening.
Thank goodness that on St Patrick’s Day, Friday 17th March, I asked my hairdresser to cut my hair very short. As far as I can remember, that was the last day that I purchased as much food as I thought I would need for some time.
I have become aware that when I leave my home for my daily exercise, I have more reflective:
At first I walked to our local ,Tomilns Pond. Next few times, I noticed the flora and fauna. Then I photographed them. Eventually, I observed details and really listened to bird song. Of course, I was often distracted by the few passing people and traffic. But having experienced glimpses of silence, I began to reflect on what it would be like to really ponder about why I do what I choose to do in life. I was so pleased with my achievement that I felt urged to share my discovery on Facebook. That led me to preparing the captions that I would put with my photographs. That resulted in dashing any hopes of contemplation. My mobile phone pinged a good deal! Yesterday, I decided not to put my photos on Facebook. Just now I have received notification from Tesco mobile informing me that my bundle…..whatever that is …is running out! Fortunately, when i eventually got through to Tesco, a very kind woman gave me two bundles free of charge and told me that another manager who researched my usage is moving me onto a more appropriate package beginning on the 23rd of April.
Today, 8th April I have been invited to give the talk that I often give, on Zoom! As it is based on my autobiography ‘Dropping The Habit’ ,I’m familiar with the facts! I’m just hoping that my worn and lined face will not be too scary for the onlookers! Both the leader of the Women’s Institute group and Apple Services have patiently enabled, hopefully, me to succeed in this venture.
In preparation for my talk and writing I have am rereading my novels: ‘Searching for Love’ and ‘A Love as Strong’. As they follow the the main characters love story, I have been rereading them to check on facts and previous developments. This morning I actually am surprised at my own achievement. Where is my humility! On the other hand while you are in lockdown you may also my a love story? Especially one revealing what it’s like to cope with intimacy after being in lockdown for thirty-there years. 
So good to hear from you always…Thanks for the update Marion❤️
Happy Easter…🐣🐇🐰