It has been some time since the national lock down across India was lifted. Even though things are still far from normal, we have to move ahead. There are mixed feeling everywhere. On one hand, we can now move around with some restrictions, we are not out of it yet. I have been at home since late March. While I spent an entire Summer behind closed doors, many embarked on a long journey back home and countless others stood on the front line to deal with the pandemic head-on. They are still fighting. More power to them.
As the world starts to open its doors, I am still standing at the window. I will be honest, it still feels strange. That idea of ‘normal’ does not exist any more. Meanwhile, my social media is flooded with post of achievements by my fellow humans. Someone painted a series of new artwork, someone managed to master baking, another learnt a new language. As I scroll through the feed, a familiar feeling creeps in quietly. ‘What did I achieve?’ Silly as it may sound, even in the midst of chaos, comparison just doesn’t seem to quit. How can it? We have been raised to look at what is growing in our neighbor’s garden before focusing on what we need to nurture in our own.
So, what DID I achieve? Well, for starters, I managed to make the most of my Netflix subscription over the course of my prolong home stay. I have mastered a grand total of 5 new recipes that I can cook from scratch. I can cut onions in record time without shedding too many tears. I also picked up a few new professional skills and learnt some more about Digital Marketing. And most importantly, I managed to keep my mental health a priority most of the time.
Yup, that is what I did. And I am okay with that. I do not need to come out of this whole lock down with trophies. I just need to come out safe and sane. So, no. I do not want to look at your perfect collection of projects. I will just sit down for tea and prepare for what is about to come next.
With this, I wrap up my Corona Diaries. Small achievements count. Indeed.
Stay Safe Everyone! ❤
(Photo by Gaelle Marcel on Unsplash)