The Transformative Lockdown: Lessons Learnt from Stay-at-Home Days
Living through a lockdown has not only impacted our daily lives but has also brought about significant changes in our mentalities. My own journey during the lockdown revealed both positive and adverse impacts, leading to new realizations and a shift in perspective.
Changes in Personality and Mentality
My personality has undergone a profound change due to prolonged stay-at-home days. I have become more introverted, spending more time with my family and appreciating their value in my life. While introspecting, I brushed up on various aspects of myself and acquired new skills. In some ways, my life has improved, but in others, it has become challenging.
One of the most significant changes is my visualization and attitude towards life. During this pandemic, I have realized the impact of nature and how humans are treated equally, regardless of their status. Daily observations have greatly influenced my views and attitudes.
Positive Changes Observed During the Lockdown
The lockdown has brought about several positive changes, some of which were unexpected. Here are a few:
1. Increased Air Quality
The air quality has improved significantly, making places and monuments more refreshing and beautiful. Earlier, visibility was limited to a few meters, but now one can see the farthest clear sky. The Yamuna River, once heavily polluted, is cleaner, and even after spending millions, one could not achieve this result. The ozone layer has also healed on its own, proving that nature can protect itself.
2. Zero Road Races and Accidents
With everyone staying at home, there were no cases of road races or accidents, meaning no one got killed. This gave people the chance to reconnect with their families and improved eating habits, leading to a healthier lifestyle and fewer illnesses, particularly heart attacks.
3. Reduced Screen Time and Family Time
People have spent less time on their phones, which has positively impacted relationships and allowed for increased family time. These positive changes make the situation during lockdown more bearable.
Adverse Impacts of the Pandemic
Despite the positives, the pandemic has also had adverse effects, particularly on certain sections of society. Let's discuss some of these issues:
1. Poor Peoples, Migrant Workers, and Labor Class
These individuals faced severe hardships due to the pandemic. They lacked money to survive and had limited food supplies. As a result, thousands of migrant workers had to travel in the scorching heat, leading to devastating accidents and loss of life. Hunger and lack of support forced many to take extreme measures, resulting in tragic losses.
2. Middle Class Impacted
The middle class was also heavily affected. Many lost their jobs or faced reduced pay, making survival impossible without financial support. This led to a significant social disruption and economic strain.
3. Rich and Famous Suffered Too
Even the rich and famous were not spared. Politicians, celebrities, and other famous people lost their lives to the virus, highlighting the universal impact of the pandemic.
Lessons Learnt and Future Perspective
The lockdown has taught us valuable lessons. When we start playing with nature, nature plays back. There is nothing stronger on this planet than nature itself. It can heal and punish. One must learn to coexist harmoniously with nature. Whether you are rich, poor, or middle-class, beautiful or ugly, remember that you came from this soil and will return to it. Spread love and care instead of hatred. Together, we are stronger than anything that can harm us.
Conclusion
These reflections during the lockdown period have shaped my perspective towards life. The realization that 'you reap what you sow' has made me more mindful of my actions and their consequences. Let us embrace nature and love for the well-being of the planet and humanity.