Having Hope in Tier 4 of Coronavirus

As we enter Tier 4, a new variant of lockdown, life as we know it is now a distant dream and the world we find ourselves in is crazier than any fictitious story or nightmare. The definition of ‘nightmare’ in the Cambridge dictionary is: “an extremely unpleasant event or experience that causes a strong emotional response from the mind, typically fear but also despair, anxiety or great sadness.” Yet this is where we find ourselves today.

All of a sudden, our freedom has been limited by rules. We cannot meet other people indoors, including over the Christmas period, unless we live with them, or they are part of our existing support bubble. Outdoors, we can only meet one person from another household. It was during the World Wars that we as a race were so greatly impacted. And this new war: the coronavirus war has already impacted us in every way over the last 9 months.

Social support and social interaction is one of the most important factors in predicting the physical health and well-being of us as people. From babies to the elderly, we all co-exist as social beings. Coronavirus, however, has different plans for us. With the new variants it is “a real warning that we need to pay closer attention,” says Jesse Bloom, an evolutionary biologist at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre. “Certainly, these mutations are going to spread further, and the scientific community need to monitor these mutations and we need to characterize which ones have effects.” British officials say that the variant is as much as 70 percent more transmissible.

In addition to being a silent killer, the impact and side effects of coronavirus are even more deadly. Social support which has a positive influence on better quality of life has been removed. Theatre visiting, socializing with friends and family, holidays and interacting with the human race has all had to suffer a big blow. Christmas is about the gift of family - the gift of love and spending quality time with your loved ones. Snuggling together under a warm blanket, watching the lights twinkling on the tree while enjoying festive food and drink and playing games together. Christmas is about visiting grandparents, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces and cousins. It is about remembering those members of your family that you rarely see. Family gatherings give children positive experiences, they teach them about compassion and sharing. They provide a stable environment to connect with others. They play a large important part in creating a happy life for us all.

Families that are close and spend time together build solid relationships. They respect one another and look out for each other. They are able to cope with adversities and family crisis more effectively. Everyone goes through difficult times with their families, but when the bond is strong whenever there is a need they come together with encouragement, love and support.

As we enter the unknown with a new year upon us, it’s so important to embrace the now, and be grateful for all your blessings. We will come through this. Things will get better. Believe in the magic of Christmas and the New Year 2021, and all the opportunities it will bring.

Best wishes,

Sharan (JS Tutoring)