Aren't these the most bizarre times of our generation? A speaking colleague in Naples, Florida tells us that he has never experienced anything this unusual in his 85 years, and he wishes the New Yorker's would stop flocking to Florida!
He, like me, is wondering about the future of live speaking/storytelling with so much having moved online?
Ultimately we are very social animals and thrive on human interaction. The world as we knew it will never be quite the same again, no doubt.
Google reveals clear skies over China, and much cleaner canals in Venice - not because the water is cleaner, but less traffic stirring up the sediment beneath. Love the idea of Attila the Hun invading Italy in 453AD forcing the Veneti people to take refuge on islands and in the nearby swamp, and so Venice came into being. Speculation abounds regarding improvements in the Ozone layer, particularly over Antarctica, with vastly reduced jet streams.
All clouds have silver linings and these examples above cheer me no end. What about lives spared during lockdown, given our shocking statistics. Never mind the reminder not to take freedom of movement for granted again, by any means.
The uncertainty created by this invisible virus is enormous, creating anticipatory grief as our sense of safety is destroyed. As a result, for many their imaginary fears become very real. Blessed with an active, vivid imagination, I have always had to work hard at separating imaginary and real fears. It is my fervent hope that as we are forced to slow down, take stock and prepare for life after Covid19, that others are able to control their imaginary fears. Concentrate instead on the real fears, the matters one has control over and create a sense of perspective. What is the worst thing that can happen to me/us? Has it happened, and adjust one's anticipatory grief/response accordingly. All kind enough to read this is infinitely better off than so many in South Africa and all over the world. Consider their fears for some time, please - real or imaginary.
I am going to be sharing some short stories online, hoping to entertain adults and youngsters alike during this lockdown period, and beyond should the response be favourable. Once travel bans are eased, I hope those who have threatened for years to visit the battlefields will realise those aspirations. There is no substitute for being on the battlefields themselves, allowing these stories to transport you. A fine reminder too of just what human beings are capable of, should you require reminding.
Adversity does not build character, it reveals it.
Cell: +27 (0)82 344 9999 or +27 (0)82 4000 470
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.robcaskie.com