VN June 2020

Vetnuus | Junie 2020 6 COVID-19. Lockdown. Debate on whether lockdown should be downgraded, or perhaps doneawaywithaltogether rageson.Everyone has an opinion; some stick to their guns and others change their opinions every time they get out of bed (which, for some during lockdown, is more than once per day). Some adhere to regulations. Many do not. We are told that the lockdown level will change based on how the pandemic develops. Some districts might stay at higher levels than others. Regulations tend to be confusing. As does the logic behind lockdown, or behind a decision to refer to districts where more cases are reported (perhaps because more tests were done?) as high risk areas. Statistics, according to some, are inaccurate, and many more cases should have been reported on. And so I can continue. We need to concentrate on the good that comes from this. People who go out of their way to provide others, who have no income, with basic food. People who do more than ever to look after animals whose owners do not have the means. Incredible music videos, where many people, each in their own homes, together create magic. Carien writes this month that her friend sees this period as a refreshing season, with opportunity for radical changes and creativity. Indeed! Perhaps we can find the time to start the new hobby, or dust off the equipment we purchased and barely used. Perhaps there is more time to chat, to eat at the dinner table rather than on your lap. Yes, many practices are almost back to normal. Many would have fallen back into old routines, being too busy to do (whatever you have been postponing). But perhaps you did experience a different lifestyle during the first few weeks of lockdown, when stricter restrictions were in place. Perhaps you were able to spend more time with your close family, or doing things you regard as special. If you did, I am sure that you enjoyed it. And if you did – should you not seriously consider making some permanent changes to your lifestyle? Difficult? Yes, it probably is. Impossible? No, it never is. It does need a firm decision, it does need the will to change, but it can be done. Make it happen! v Regards, From the Editor Reflections from a DamWall Paul van Dam