Chris Cody

Finding beauty

There has been a feeling of emptiness to the whole thing. The start of 'lockdown' was an exciting and scary time. The fear was easy to identify - viruses are dangerous and invisible - not a great combination for any anxious soul. Choosing to use a word like 'lockdown' brought a movie type of energy to the mind. Imagining men in black suits (with unnecessary sunglasses) escorting particularly important people into special bunkers was extremely easy. You could almost hear a mental alarm blaring. It was a new type of risk for many of us - a universal one that seemed like it would affect us all. Walking empty streets in deserted towns for essential supplies gave the impression that something big was happening. This one was going to be different. The financial crisis of 2008 was the last time a potential game-changer came along; feeling as though it could change everything for everyone. However, the current situation did not take long before the general mood was more like bored children during a rainy summer holiday. Routines stopped or altered and Zoom became a thing. The internet allowed us to continue to be connected but it could often be difficult to feel connected. Having another person nearby is a sensory experience (whether or not we are always conscious of this). Most of us will be most keenly aware that we can see and hear other people. Comfort can be gained from the touch and scent of another person just as much if not so obviously. Taste can be included in the sharing of a drink or meal (and other avenues not covered in this article!).