Lockdown Experiences and Personal Reflections: Navigating Through Adversity and Growth
Lockdown has been a period filled with mundane routines and unforeseen emotions. For many, the months spent locked indoors were a testing ground for resilience and introspection. In this article, we explore my personal experiences during lockdown and reflect on how this period shaped my emotional and mental journey.
Mundane Days and Virtual School
The lockdown was a quiet era, characterized by an uneventful monotony. Days blended into one another, filled primarily with television, gaming, online drawing, and an occasional session of online schooling. While the latter proved to be a source of stress, the free time allowed me to experiment with hobbies and unwind in various ways.
Personal Loss and Grandfather's Passing
Amidst the ordinary, when my step-grandfather was approached by hospice care, it brought about a significant change. We made the trip to Ohio to be with him during his final days. He was a retired alcoholic, around 60-80 years old, whose speech was slurred and his physical appearance frail.
Reflecting on the experience, it was a poignant and quiet affair. The trip brought memories and emotions to the surface, but it also reinforced the importance of familial bonds and presence in times of need. Following this journey, we returned to Ohio for the memorial of my other grandfather, Grandpa Clark. Thus, two grandfathers, separated by years, died in close proximity to each other from different causes—Grandpa Steve due to old age and alcohol abuse, and Grandpa Clark from cancer.
Navigating Life Post-Lockdown
While the lockdown brought challenges, it also offered a moment of clarity. Life has returned to a state of normalcy in terms of personal happiness and fulfillment. New hobbies, gardening, reading, and the exploration of interests have kept life engaging. However, the disruption in accessing services has been a minor obstacle.
Recently, I faced a setback in my dental care due to a previous dentist’s refusal to accommodate my service dog. Finding a new dentist who welcomed my companion was a relief, but it underscores the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in healthcare.
Lockdown Debates and Projections
The idea of lockdowns in the United States is often met with projections of economic collapse and political upheaval. Many believe that such measures would lead to the resurgence of authoritarian governance, culminating in a complete loss of freedoms and a totalitarian rule.
It is widely recognized that lockdowns have failed and often worsened the situation, particularly in terms of spreading the virus. The fear of another 30% population loss due to resurgence in variants is not unfounded. As such, the general sentiment is that lockdowns are not a sustainable or effective solution.
Conclusion
Lockdown has been a journey filled with both stagnation and growth. While the initial months were characterized by a lack of purpose, the experiences of personal loss and the subsequent return to a semblance of normalcy have taught valuable lessons in resilience and self-care. Life, post-lockdown, continues to be filled with activities cherished, but the inclusivity and accessibility of essential services are paramount for a truly fulfilling existence.