So, it has now been over two weeks since I have been in quarantine and I can officially leave my house. I must say, the second week was just as good as the first. I had enjoyable moments with my family – we had a Bible study together, ate food together, and played card games – I am so grateful.
Leaving the house seems unattractive at the moment, given I have been at home for the last two weeks. Moreover, the weather does not necessarily tempt me to step out in any case either. I’ve been reading books, my Bible, and praying a lot. I have found the lockdown has massively helped me to read my Bible, study and pray with friends and deepen my relationship with God. Lockdown in general has made me reflect more on what I consider to be important in life which has, to some extent, been skewed. It is quite easy to yearn for normality or normalcy after Corona virus, return to our usual lives, and our usual habits.
The reality is, that life will not be the same following Corona-virus. Not least, because of the implementation of social distance, the wearing of masks, and the need to wash hands frequently both at home and in public. Corona-virus has massively affected the economies of many countries all over the world and the headlines are currently looking very solemn and anxiety-inducing. From redundancies to businesses going into administration or completely going bust and out of the market. Having left the house for the first time today, I have myself seen the effects of Covid-19 on the local high-street of my beloved town.
On the topic of students, many of us (perhaps less so myself, since I am a graduate now) have had to forfeit their summer exams for staycations and online classes or perhaps no classes at all in order to shield against Corona-virus. A-level students and GCSE students alike are relying on past mock exams and predicted grades to get into University in September or into sixth form. Most likely news that was met with anger and annoyance since such students most likely worked hard for those exams and will never be able to truly see their potential in these final exams.
For those who will go to University, their courses may perhaps look different, with lectures likely being relayed through online formats, similar to that which I experienced at the hight of the pandemic. Other students still, myself included have already completed their studies, either having a closing/graduation ceremony online, or having their graduation postponed until further notice (I for one, have had a bit of both).
All of this to say, that the current pandemic is not something to be taken lightly. As an aspiring barrister, I have had to reschedule a mini-pupillage and consider a summer job online. Fortunately, Corona-virus has permitted firms, businesses and Chambers to invest in building an online community where budding lawyers can participate in online activities such as webinars, open days, and internships. I have an Internship to look forward to (I give all glory and honour to the Lord and boast in Christ alone, but I do know others have not been so fortunate and unemployment faces many of my peers I studied alongside. Update: I have now completed it!
Galatians 6:14
14But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord JesusChrist, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
Covid has thrown up a lot of questions for me. It has meant that I am reflecting on life more and on what time in lockdown has taught me about myself and others. One question I am constantly reflecting on is: What are we all striving for in life? Often its because I am a philosopher at heart and love to have discussions on deep questions rather than surface-level conversations.
But really, Covid for the most part meant that all businesses, trades, or services were, for a period, not functioning at all or not fully. And consequently this has led to the current precarious economy and high levels of unemployment.
Thus begs the question i’ve been thinking about…what are we working and striving for in life?
Yes, we absolutely need a livelihood in order to sustain ourselves and our families (preferably one that is adorable), but, ultimately, we need this in order to provide us with resources which equip us in fulfilling the work of God’s Kingdom. It is important not to forget that and in the process of gaining success and wealth, not to become prideful especially when we see others in less-fortunate circumstances than ourselves. It is important to be empathetic and mindful, sensitive and slow-to-speak. More than anything, it is important to be continually grateful to God.
So with this in mind, I will conclude this blog post by saying that God has been so incredibly faithful to me and my family. I graduated a year from my undergraduate studies a few days ago this month. So much has happened in a year – so many breakthroughs, blessings, and healing have taken place. I will again, and forever, give God the glory!
prayletsprose 