Lockdown Journal - Day 31

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Sunday, Day 31:

Time is a universal given. It is the context within which we all must live and work. No one is given more time than another, and no one is given less. Before the lockdown, I was used to partitioning my time in order to strike a balance between work, studies and hobbies.

The lockdown has made things ridiculously easy. No more rationing; suddenly, I had enough time on my hands. I even had enough time to write this 31-day journal. It is also my last journal entry.

I’m going to compile my thirty-one days’ entries and write a book about my experiences in lockdown. Not only will it account for my time spent in isolation but also the level of my productivity during the lockdown.

To say the COVID-19 pandemic has uprooted our lives is an understatement. One can barely fall asleep because our patterns are all over the place. We’re concerned about the economy, our work, our children, family, the future... Call it uncertainty and fear. The only thing that can make us sleep well is trust. Proverbs 3:24 says, “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” I am sure we can’t wait for that time to come.

Let us take heart in the fact that according to 2 Chronicles 16:9, "For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.”

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. The number of cases reported since the beginning of the lockdown is scary. The right thing to do is to help someone who needs our help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#SocialDistancing
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 30

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Saturday, Day 30:

The world is not going back to ‘business as usual’ any time soon. What the world needs now is love. The only way for love to manifest is through unity. South Africa needs it now more than ever. Our differences like culture, education, class, race etc., have become walls of separation that must be broken down. These are areas we all can agree on to respect.

Given the complicated nature of our rainbow nation, it is not surprising that there are so many assumptions and misconceptions flying around on social media. I love the concept of ‘apart we are together’ because it reminds me of the spirit of reconciliation during Nelson Mandela’s leadership era.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we all complained that we had no time or were out of time. Maybe now is the time to take stock. Perhaps we should not go any further until we have accomplished this. How can we achieve this? We can start by uniting to fight a common enemy known as ‘novel coronavirus’.

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. The number of cases reported since the beginning of the lockdown is scary. The right thing to do is to help someone who needs our help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#SocialDistancing
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 29

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Friday, Day 29:

Last night our president struggled to put on his mask in front of millions of television viewers. It was funny, but I looked at it in a philosophical way. We all wear masks; some are good at hiding the shame and pain while others wear their hearts on their sleeves. It’s a fact that most of us put on a mask to protect us from life’s harsh realities while others are stronger in facing the truth. As the poet E. E. Cummings wrote, “The greatest battle we face as human beings is the battle to protect our true selves from the self the world wants us to become.”

From this morning’s reactions on social media, we can all agree that South Africans love their president and his mask. President Ramaphosa has announced a strategy to classify provinces, districts and metros on a five-level risk scale. Level one carries the lowest and level five, the highest risk level. He also announced that the country would move to Level 4 as of 1 May. Cigarettes will also be permitted but bars, shebeens, theatres and cinemas will remain closed.

The impact of COVID-19 on our psyche is severe. During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. The number of cases reported since the beginning of the lockdown is scary. The right thing to do is to help someone who needs our help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#StayAtHome
#SaferTogether
#SocialDistancing
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 28

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Thursday, Day 28:

I love songs and poetry about the moon. Unfortunately, the novel coronavirus took centre stage when a supermoon beamed beautifully at us a few weeks ago. The moon has been at the centre of controversy when Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong set foot on it in 1969. Many people thought that moon landing was fake. One thing that I know for sure is that the moon is made of cheese. There are thousands of conspiracy theories about it on the internet. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a conspiracy theory is, “a theory that explains an event or set of circumstances as the result of a secret plot by usually powerful conspirators.”

Over the past couple weeks, the strangeness of this lockdown life has seeped into every nook and cranny of our daily lives, exposing, among other things, the conspiracy theories. Social media has made it possible for people to say whatever they like and think. It’s a conspiracy theorist’s heaven. There are countless conspiracy theories flying around about the novel coronavirus. One popular conspiracy theory is that COVID-19 is a bioweapon created in a lab in China. I guess people begin to believe these theories, especially when professionals in the field make those claims.

COVID-19 has created a perfect storm for conspiracy theorists. I've observed on social media platforms just how much South Africans love conspiracy theories. Okay, some of it is humour, but the rest are serious claims. We all feel vulnerable because this pandemic and the effects of it on our daily lives are almost depressing. This could also be a reason why spreading conspiracy theories gives some people more of a feeling of control. It should stop because it’s a false sense of control. It causes more harm than anything during this trying time.

Claims that the government is using the lockdown restrictions to control its citizens is dangerous and laughable. The aim of these allegations is to ultimately force the government to lift the lockdown. Fighting a deadly virus like COVID-19 is not that simple. It is unrealistic to expect a normal life to return after the lockdown has been lifted even partially. Throughout the world, people are coming together to do what they can to fight the pandemic that has changed life as we know it. Let us fight this common enemy together by staying home.

The impact of COVID-19 on our psyche is severe. During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. The number of cases reported since the beginning of the lockdown is scary. The right thing to do is to help someone who needs our help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#StayAtHome
#SaferTogether
#SocialDistancing
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 27

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Wednesday, Day 27:

The country’s poorest of the poor are experiencing extreme hardship under the extended lockdown. This is not unique to South Africa because hundreds of third world countries around the world are going through the same hardships if not worse. We are all in this together.

Last night, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a massive, R500-billion package aimed at loosening the grip that COVID-19 has on the economy. It is unprecedented, historic and unexpected. He announced that unemployed people, not in receipt of money from the Unemployment Insurance Fund, or a grant, will get R350 per month for 6 months. Grant beneficiaries are to receive an extra R250 a month for the next 3 months. He announced several other aid packages during the live broadcast.

The COVID-19 pandemic has given couch potatoes and keyboard protestors an opportunity to hurl criticism at our president with statements like, “not enough” and “stop the lockdown”. It seems to me that they refuse to take accountability because they expect the government to do its job of protecting its citizens. To lift the lockdown restrictions now would increase the transmission of the coronavirus dramatically.

The impact of COVID-19 on our psyche is severe. During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. The number of cases reported since the beginning of the lockdown is really scary. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#StayAtHome
#SaferTogether
#SocialDistancing
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 26

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Tuesday, Day 26:

Have you noticed the increasing number of irresponsible posts by people demanding the lockdown to end? The government is accused of lies etc. Really? Welcome to the new normal; we are in uncertain times. The whole world (including third world countries) are dealing with a pandemic that nobody understands. Many things have been feeling upside-down lately. All economies are affected, some admittedly more adverse than others.

We as South Africans have weathered many storms (apartheid, being the tsunami), but we have survived. Yes, we are all in uncharted territory. The current format of the full lockdown will be eased soon to resuscitate our ailing economy. However, we cannot expect the floodgates to be opened and then suffer a resurgence of the virus.

I do have questions for those demanding an immediate lifting of the lockdown:
“Rest at home” or “Rest in peace”
“6 feet away” or “6 feet under”

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#StayAtHome
#SaferTogether
#SocialDistancing
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 25

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Monday, Day 25:

Television has always been an entertaining distraction and a way to escape the stresses of daily life. However, the world has changed since the introduction of the TV. The COVID-19 pandemic is just one example of how television has become a source of vital information.

Watching the news, one realises that the coronavirus picked the right time, and the right country to create havoc on a socio-economic level. The poorest of the poor are resorting to looting because of hunger. Food supplies from the government for the poor are allegedly intercepted by councillors, and the sold or handed out to their supporters. Several claims of food looting have been reported in several provinces. This kind of behaviour coming from community-elected councillors is inhumane and unacceptable.

It’s now up to private donors and foundations like that of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, to donate food parcels in some of Port Elizabeth’s poorest townships. Some churches are also distributing food parcels to the needy and vulnerable. The current situation has many South Africans feeling helpless and hopeless. The nation is in a grip of fear due to uncertainties brought on the lockdown.

I am fully aware that quoting Bible scriptures won’t bring food on the table, but I do believe that it’s food for one’s spirit. One of the scriptures that I think about a lot comes from 1 Peter 5:7, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” I believe we have nothing to lose by giving God all our worries.

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

World COVID-19 count:
2,424,419 Infections - 166,235 Deaths.

#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#COVID19

Lockdown Journal - Day 24

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Sunday, Day 24:

Last week we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus. He rose from the dead just for us. It is a daily celebration in my life. Today thousands of my fellow South Africans are in their own Garden of Gethsemane; in the middle of a fight for survival against an unseen enemy, the coronavirus. The curve (curse) must be flattened, the virus must be stopped. There is however another threat; protests and looting all over South Africa in response to one issue: hunger.

Our television screens flicker with images of people protesting and praying as they fight hunger because of poverty, and loss of income. I cannot imagine the levels of anxiety and stress in these households. The government is doing its bit, but its hands are full. The government is like a juggler trying to maintain a balance between securing food supply to the needy and containing the spreading of COVID-19 daily.

It is up to us, civil society to help feed the hungry families because the government - for obvious reasons - is not doing enough. Allegations have surfaced of councillors and government officials in several provinces keeping food packages provided by the government for themselves and their families, and some rerouting them to their supporters.

This is where we stand up and say, “when they go low, we go high”. As citizens of this young democracy, we must help our fellow South Africans because no man is an island. I am reminded of a poem by John Donne titled, “No man is an island”. The opening verses are still relevant today:

No man is an island,
entire of itself;
every man is a piece of the continent,
a part of the main.

The closing verses hit even harder as we see an increase in the number of deaths due to COVID-19 in South Africa:

Any man’s death diminishes me,
because I am involved in mankind;
and therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls;
it tolls for thee.

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#LifeInLockdown
#GodBlessSouthAfrica
#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#CoronaViru

Lockdown Journal - Day 23

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Saturday, Day 23:

Imagine walking alone at night during the lockdown and a ghostly figure with wild hair and a grizzly bear beard jumps in front of you. Well, that’s what a small Malaysian community is experiencing. It’s their government’s attempt to ensure superstitious residents stay home during the country's coronavirus lockdown. With the ongoing disregard for the lockdown regulations in South Africa, this might be an option.

I want to share something equally ghostly and ghastly about Arthur Nortje, a poet from Port Elizabeth, doomed to isolation in a foreign country, unable to return home. He went to school in South End, studied at the University of the Western Cape, and taught at Paterson High School before leaving to graduate at Jesus College in the United Kingdom.

Arthur Nortje died in Oxford in December 1970. He didn’t die from the coronavirus, but he was sent into exile by the apartheid virus. A racist virus that had Nortje questioning his self-worth and his identity. He kept a diary (exercise books) in which he wrote about life in South Africa, Canada and in the United Kingdom. Robert Pearce, a librarian and author, digitised all Nortje’s diaries. It is archived at the University of South Africa. From his diary entries, one could deduce that Nortje questioned the meaning of life, his identity and his on-off love relationship with his country, then run by a racist government.

Everything went bad when he had to leave his beloved country in 1966 on a one-way exit visa. His writing dealt with the isolation of being classified as a ‘baster’ coloured in apartheid, South Africa. He felt alienated, discarded, isolated. His poems reflect the feelings of separation and loss. Arthur Nortje died a lonely man, but he lives on in the hearts of those he touches with his bold yet introspective writing. Nortje's life has made me realise again that one’s destination is not a place but looking at things through a new lens. Unfortunately, all that Nortje could see was dead roots.

Here is an excerpt from his poem “Waiting”:
“The isolation of exile is a gutted
warehouse at the back of pleasure street:
the waterfront of limbo stretches panoramically
- night the beautifier lets the lights
dance across the wharf,
I peer through the skull's black windows
wondering what can credibly save me.”

The Arthur Nortje Collection was sold to the Unisa Library by Hedy Davis, who obtained the notepads, exercise diaries, and personal documents in the course of her researching the life and works of Nortje, on behalf of Mrs Cecelia Potgieter, the mother of Arthur Nortje. A few people I know still have questions around royalties because he has a surviving half-sister living in Port Elizabeth. There are efforts underway to have Nortje’s remains repatriated to South Africa.

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#CoronaVirus

Lockdown Journal - Day 22

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Friday, Day 22:

It’s now three weeks since South Africans embarked on a lockdown to stop the spread of COVID-19. From what I’ve heard yesterday is that the government intends on gradually lifting restrictions on the lockdown. Apparently, the government is planning to slowly send children back to school according to their grades. It raises concerns and a lot of tough questions. I’m just thinking of the psychological effects this is going to have on learners and teachers. Has the government given any thought to Professor Jonathan Jansen’s advice that the 2020 academic year be called off due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic? Or is it not that simple or easy?

It’s an uncertain time for all. There are so many tough decisions to be made but let me rather focus on the lockdown days. Imagine closing your eyes while hugging a tree. Can you feel your cheek pressing against it? Can you feel the warmth and currents flowing from the tree into you? This is exactly what Iceland’s forestry service suggest people do to overcome the sense of isolation many people suffer because of COVID-19 preventative measures. I don’t see it happening in our concrete jungles though; maybe people in our small town’s where there are lots of trees. I doubt it if there are permits in South Africa for such an unusual approach to counter cabin fever.

During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

World COVID-19 count:
2,167,955 Infections - 550,987 Recovered - 146,055 Deaths.

#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#CoronaVirus

Lockdown Journal - Day 21

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Thursday, Day 21:

More than two million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially registered around the world. The world as we know it has been tipped on its head. It feels as if we are literally caught up in a sci-fi movie. People around the world are “locked” in their homes in order to escape an invisible “monster” namely, COVID-19. Indeed, interesting times.

It would seem from new data that President Ramaphosa has implemented the lockdown in time to curb the spread of the coronavirus. I've heard that information about whether the lockdown has worked, will only be available in a week’s time. Let’s keep on praying for good news. It looks like the Democratic Republic of Conga is not only grappling with the COVID-19 but new cases of the Ebola virus. Let’s keep them in our prayers.

I’ve found some interesting information about the spreading of fake news during COVID-19 on Medium, an internet magazine. The article says, “Just like a virus, misinformation spreads by human contact. Viruses spread through physical contact while information spreads through a different type of contact, one that is immune to social distancing." But while messaging platforms make spreading fake news easier, the internet is but a tool for disseminating a human concoction. This could be why misinformation is so much more contagious than accurate information.

The answer is obvious: “Viruses need hosts so they can replicate and spread. This is also true for information. In this case, we are the growth medium: We feed the sources by reposting or retweeting something we’ve seen or read.” Think before you spread information.

Please ‘spread’ the following information: During the lockdown, many women, men and children are stuck at home with their abusers. There is no excuse for abuse during or after lockdown. The bravest thing you and I can do is to help someone who needs help or is asking for help. Call the Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline on 0800 150 150.

#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#CoronaVirus

Lockdown Journal - Day 20

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Wednesday, Day 20:

Yesterday South Africans received the good news that the SA Reserve Bank has decided to cut the repo rate by one percentage point. This will go a long way to ease a lot of financial pressures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, that’s where the good news ended.

It was not a good day for the city of Port Elizabeth. To think that COVID-19 is so powerful that it can - during lockdown - reach locked-up prisoners. A total of 78 inmates and officials in the Eastern Cape tested positive for COVID-19. The total includes inmates and an official at St Albans Correctional Centre in Port Elizabeth.

Nelson Mandela Bay has recorded its second death related to the global pandemic. The number of confirmed cases in the metro has risen to 51. More shocking news came after two Port Elizabeth shops were looted by residents. In Timothy Valley, the metro’s police dispersed looters, but they retaliated and injured a metro police officer. How does looting a spaza shop or grocery store benefit the community? It seems so senseless.

The looting reminded me of a Bob Marley song titled “Burnin’ and lootin’”. The lyrics include: “All that we got, it seems we have lost / We must have really paid the cost / Burnin' and a-lootin' tonight / Say we gonna burn and loot…”.

The coronavirus has shone a light on poverty and poor living conditions in the country’s poorest communities. We can only hope that government, business, community leaders, and councillors can work together in future to prevent something like this from happening again.

#LockdownJournal
#LockdownSouthAfrica
#CoronaVirus

Lockdown Journal - Day 19

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Tuesday, Day 19:

Nowadays thousands of South Africans leave their homes to deliver essential services to millions in lockdown. Armed with hand sanitisers, gloves, masks, and wet wipes, they leave their families behind to defend a nation against an invisible enemy.

Unfortunately, there is a visible enemy left behind at home called, abuse. During the lockdown, many South Africans (women, men and children) are stuck at home with their abusers. According to the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre, more than 2 300 gender-based violence complaints were registered in the first five days of lockdown. One can only imagine how high the figures are by now.

I pray that the abusers acknowledge the trauma they are putting their loved ones through. I pray that they learn to detest their own behaviour and come to true repentance. I pray that God keep us all safe in our relationships. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#LockdownSA

Lockdown Journal - Day 18

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Monday, Day 18:

I can think of a few people who taught me an important principle when I was still in my youth. They all said the same thing, “React only to facts. Don’t respond to assumptions and emotions.” This is a valuable principle when it comes to relationships and life in general.

Social media is probably the single most dangerous communication tool currently in use. Many smart people have fallen for dangerous lies about the new coronavirus. At worst, the ideas themselves are harmful because people have died from drinking chemicals in the belief that it will cure them. During this trying time, I advise anyone to stick to the facts. Make sure the information (mostly gossip or fake news) is correct by verifying it. This will stop you from overreacting and spreading the news further and farther into the world. Remember that technology has turned this world into one global village. Fake news can be spread faster than the coronavirus.

Keep seeking the truth no matter what your circumstances. Stick to your faith; remain immovable and unshakable. God constantly declares that He wants only what is best for us. I love the truth proclaimed in Jeremiah 29:11-13, For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#LockdownSA

Lockdown Journal - Day 17

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Sunday, Day 17:

Today is day 17 of #LockdownSA2020. The church is empty, the tomb is empty. Jesus has risen from the grave! “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.” – Matthew 28:6 (NIV).

The fact that Jesus died and rose from the dead just for us, should be a daily celebration. Awesome signs and wonders accompanied the death of Jesus. My wife and I watched a movie on Good Friday about Mary Magdalene of Magdala. She was the first person to see Jesus after he rose from the dead. She was also at the crucifixion before darkness came over the whole land. That darkness reminded me of an old saying, “It's always darkest before the dawn” from Thomas Fuller’s, A Pisgah Sight of Palestine. I never understood this saying until I went through some turbulent times in my life. It is the perfect saying to cheer somebody up. I also believe it was an intentional move by God that historic day on Mount Calvary.

Many believe that the darkness was brought about by an act of God. It was expressive of His sympathy with His Son, Jesus. It was also a message that things may look dire, but there is always a positive outcome. However, God’s character required sin to be punished, and because Jesus died for our sins, He had to visibly display it through darkness on Mount Calvary. It was God’s full wrath against our sins.

When we look at the scene of Jesus taking his last breath, it is evident on everyone’s facial expressions that they thought Jesus was a fake prophet or messiah. God always has one more move in store for us. He proved it with His son, Jesus. I have come to learn that once you hit rock bottom, you can only get up thereafter. The word “darkest” refers to the worst state things could be in, but there is a “dawn” referring to the sun rising and things starting to look better.

We might be in the middle of a difficult lockdown period as we fight the unseen enemy, coronavirus, but there is a new dawn coming. The darkness was a powerful display of God’s power. Only God can change the laws of nature. Easter Sunday is the best evidence of how we can also rise from the worst of situations and live blessed lives in the future. Yes, we can because we are God’s children!

#EasterSunday
#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#LockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 16

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Saturday, Day 16:

Today is day 16 of #LockdownSA2020. A few weeks ago, we were stuck to our mobile touch screen devices, but the coronavirus has made most of us aware of every touchable surface that could transmit the coronavirus. Isn’t it ironic? The coronavirus has irreversibly changed our mindset when it comes to personal hygiene and healthcare.

I live 10 minutes from the airport, and I haven’t seen or heard a plane for the last two weeks! The skies are empty, clean (no air pollution) and it is silent. Okay, now and then I do see birds gracing the sky above my house. It made me think about a lot of stuff though.

I sat with my wife in our backyard thinking about another silence; gunshots from the reckless hands of gangsters. There are no dead bodies on the streets of Port Elizabeth’s northern areas. This is in stark contrast to a year ago when bodies have been piling up at a Port Elizabeth mortuary. A community leader referred to the gang-related violence in the northern areas as “self-inflicted genocide”. Where are the gangsters?

The deployment of the army before lockdown couldn’t stop the gang-related violence, but the lockdown regulations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, have stemmed the senseless killings. I do have a question: Do parents and families now have the best opportunity to talk to their children and siblings about their gangster ways? In fact, I have another question: Is this not the best time for every gangster to rethink their ways? I am not a counsellor or psychologist, but I am sure there is some truth to these questions. This might sound ironic and even dark, but a lot of lives are being saved because of the lockdown regulations. I am not trying to be controversial, but is this perhaps a solution for the future? To put communities on lockdown on weekends when gang-related killings and violence are at its highest? I know it’s not that simple. Research related to underlying factors for gangsterism are still lacking. However, I know one thing for sure; the coronavirus has irrevocably changed the world in many ways.

Many of us wish to turn back the clock to retreat to how life was before the pandemic forced us into lockdown. Many of us probably lie awake at night wondering what the future holds for us and our children in a post coronavirus era. Whether life as we knew it returns to "normal" or not, I believe there is an upside; we as individuals will be more resilient after the lockdown experience. We as South Africans are wired for survival. We will get through this!

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 15

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Friday, Day 15:

Today is day 15 of #LockdownSA2020. In a post lockdown era, I will never look at face masks and gloves the same way again. I will always be reminded of the coronavirus pandemic and what it meant to the world. Likewise have the images of the cross and a crown of thorns evoked images of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for thousands of years after the Good Friday event.

To say it is Good Friday is oxymoronic; two words of contradictory meaning used together for a special day. Why do we call Good Friday “good”? Isn’t Good Friday a dark and bleak event commemorating the death of Jesus? Yes, but it’s "good" because Jesus suffered and died for our sins but was raised to life on the third day. As terrible as it was, it marks the conclusion of God’s plan to sacrifice His Son to save us from our sins.

Two phrases, “It is done” and “It is finished,'' were spoken by Jesus. It declared that the foundation of the temple of the redeemed had been laid and that the glorious structure had been completed. I’m sure that we all are waiting for the announced that the curve has been flattened and that the coronavirus has been defeated. When that day comes, we will echo the lyrics of the Hillsong Worship song “Shout unto God”:

“The enemy has been defeated
Death couldn't hold You down
We're gonna lift our voice in victory
We're gonna make Your praises loud.”

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY14

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Thursday, Day 14:

Today is day 14 of #LockdownSA2020. Charles Dickens wrote a novel with the opening paragraph, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” One could say the same about this lockdown period because there’s nothing ordinary about what is unfolding around us. Every lockdown day is filled with good news and bad news. My thoughts and prayers go out to people trapped in abusive homes or struggling with isolation during the coronavirus lockdown.

With the country fixated on the coronavirus pandemic, many of us have forgotten about the supermoon on day 13. It was the brightest and the closest to Earth so far this year. We are, for the most part, social animals. Isolation isn’t a natural state for many. However, we are part of the solution in “flattening the curve” to lower the death rate caused by the novel coronavirus. It is heart-warming to read about the production of personal protective gear (PPE) by staff and students at Nelson Mandela University. Motor manufacturers overseas have also indicated that they will be producing PPE’s.

Meanwhile, university students and matriculants are becoming more anxious about their academic year. Professor Jonathan Jansen wrote a thought-provoking article in a reputable newspaper today. He said COVID-19 is not the cause of the schooling crisis; it has just exposed how huge the inequalities in SA education are. How do you continue online teaching if most learners do not have access to basic needs like running water and electricity? The miracle of online platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Moodle and other technologies are worthless if most pupils and students don’t have access to the internet. This is a conversation for another day.

For now, let us welcome tomorrow, Good Friday, with hope and peace in our hearts. Tomorrow churches are live-streaming their services. Easter represents renewal, new life, and unconditional love as we come together to celebrate. Let each of us share in the sense of hope this offers for the world.

For those unable to access the internet for live-streaming, I would like to share this encouraging Bible scripture from Peter 1:3-4, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 13

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Wednesday, Day 13:

Today is day 13 of #LockdownSA2020. I woke up this morning thankful for the good things, big and small, in my life. I am especially grateful for wisdom. Seldom is it a product of speedy deliberation. Wisdom takes time, but I hope it comes quickly for a certain minister in our government. Let me first share this quote before I continue. I love the quote, “Ego is the anaesthesia that deadens the pain of stupidity.” It applies to beleaguered Communications Minister, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams. She needs to read this quote and then take a long, hard look at herself. Why? Because a social media post went viral showing her having lunch at a friend’s house during the national lockdown.

South Africans have become used to senior government officials behaving with impunity. They are supposed to be exemplary by sending a clear message about social distancing. It is a slap in the face of millions of South Africans heeding the call to stay at home. This morning the news came that the president has placed the minister on special leave for two months, of which one month will be unpaid. Let it be a warning to senior officials thinking of ignoring the lockdown regulations.

We are living in a time of unimaginable frustration because less gets done. However, let us focus on getting the right things done. It appears the government are doing a few things right. Yesterday we received good news that spaza shops and informal traders can operate under lockdown. Expectant mothers and mothers of new-born babies also received the good news that baby shops can trade during the lockdown period.

I hope to do some physical exercises today. There are hundreds of exercise programmes to choose from on websites and popular social media platforms. Those not in the mood can exercise their brains by downloading games on their mobile devices.

For some spiritual exercises, I recommend 1 Timothy 4:8 (GNT), “Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is valuable in every way because it promises life both for the present and for the future.”

World COVID-19 count:
1,447,466 Infections - 308,215 Recoveries - 83,471 Deaths.

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 12

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Tuesday, Day 12:

Today is day 12 of #LockdownSA2020. In this unfolding of historic change, we have been guided by social distancing regulations aimed at beating a new, deadly virus called COVID-19.

Each morning since the start of the 21-days lockdown, most of us rise to meet another day with a certain quantum of emotional energy. Others are sadly already drained as the sun rises. To think that it was only 13 days ago that physical activity like walk, run and flying was an indispensable part of our daily routine.

We live in an unprecedented era with unprecedented problems. Hoaxes, conspiracy theories and fake news have been abundant since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. People continue to share false information on social media or via WhatsApp. This is frightening stuff, but I would like to focus on the impact of the lockdown measures on the youth.

We are faced with a ‘new’ lifestyle and the anxiety proves to be particularly devastating to young people. It would seem that simplicity is not a trendy fad for the youth. Simple lifestyles, or something resembling that idea, will continue to hound the young. They are craving socialising, open spaces, and the freedom of movement. Romantic relationships are on hold for now. To most of them, it feels like walking a tightrope…

I was a youngster and do identify with the youth’s dilemma to an extend. However, I remember my youth days in the absence of shopping malls, television, the internet, and telephones (there were no cell phones, by the way). My youth days were spent taking naps, having dinner at the table with my family, and going to youth evenings on a Friday. I spent my weekends reading, studying, playing rugby for my school, or a friend or two over to watch television, or listen to music.

I guess the simple life sounds all the more attractive as one grows older. Today’s youth would argue that they deserve a chance to experience life’s trials and errors. It’s a fair point. I am, however, reminded of the writer John Burroughs words: “I am bound to praise the simple life because I have lived it and found it good. When I depart from it, evil results follow…” I wonder if these sentiments will be scoffed at by future generations. Having our lives unexpectedly upended by the coronavirus, we do not know what is around the next bend.

For now, let us be part of someone’s support network even if it's only for replenishing their depleted energy reserves. I conclude my journal entry with this comforting message from Psalm 94:19 (CEV), “And when I was burdened with worries, you comforted me and made me feel secure.”

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 11

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Monday, Day 11:

Today is day 11 of #LockdownSA2020. Every day feels like a carbon copy of the one before. I’m living out my own ‘Groundhog Day’. It gets more difficult by the day to keep myself productive, focused, and creative. How much longer do we have to live like this? The experts are not sure. It’s not the most satisfying answer, but we must remain resilient.

We live in a strange time; the world has never been so clean in terms of mass personal hygiene. Unnecessary contact with external objects or other people has become an unofficial law. For every problem, there’s a solution, but that solution, unfortunately, brings another problem. The social distancing rule is an example thereof. It is aimed at flattening the curve and stopping the coronavirus in its tracks, but people are still out gallivanting and ignoring the lockdown regulations. It’s a global problem; the UK police had to chase people from parks and beaches while the same is happening in France, the US and African countries.

The message to stay home in order to save lives is obviously not getting through. A bride and groom, including their wedding guests, and pastor were arrested over the weekend in KwaZulu-Natal. The one moment it was ‘bride and groom’ and it quickly turned into ‘doom and gloom’.
The coronavirus has left nothing untouched in its wake. For all its peril, it has helped bring people together. Families are connecting more frequently as seen from video clips on social media platforms. There are a lot of unanswered questions coming from our children and loved ones, but one thing I know for sure is that everything will be okay.

During lockdown fear and despair have been nipping at our heels. It made some people turn to religion; others to conspiracy theories, or tackling new hobbies. During the lockdown period, there will be moments that we feel anxiety threatening to overwhelm us. At that moment, I always feel encouraged by the Bible scripture in Psalm 35:15 (NIV) that says, “My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.” Let’s stay focused and allow ourselves the time to rest well and use the opportunity to do some introspection (stock-taking).

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 10

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Sunday, Day 10:

Today is day 10 of #LockdownSA2020 and a lot of people are still not following the coronavirus social distancing rule. It seems like “All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone." This is a quote written by the French philosopher, Blaise Pascal, almost 400 years ago, but still relevant today. The news is filled with stories of people being arrested for defying the lockdown order. Why not stay home? Are these people invincible? Could it be that some people are just afraid to sit quietly in a room alone with their thoughts? According to Pascal, we fear the silence of existence, we fear our thoughts, or dread boredom and instead choose aimless distraction.

Living under lockdown is not that simple. The homeless have nowhere to go. Poverty can be seen as almost working with the virus. As South Africans, we find ourselves in situations that we could never have imagined. Adjustment comes with uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. We all have to exercise some level of patience and understanding. A behavioural expert said one of the many reasons for the reluctance to stay home comes from extroverted people or those emotionally dependant on others. Whatever the reasons for ignoring the lockdown regulation, we must remember that lives are at stake. By staying home, we can save lives.

I recall friends and colleagues complaining about the lack of time to spend with the family or practice a hobby. Well, we are now stuck with loads of 24-hour days. We have enough spouse-to-spouse time, and parent-to-child time to keep those emotional chins off the floor and smile.

Finally, there are ways to deal with being on lockdown. Just a few clicks on social media reveals hundreds of ways on how to cope during this time.


#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 9

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Saturday, Day 9:

Today is the ninth day of South Africa’s lockdown due to the coronavirus that in a very short time has become a universal malady. During our first week of national lockdown, we have found ourselves in situations that we could never have imagined. On social media and in the newspaper, we read about cancelled birthday parties, graduations, weddings, and book launches. We are left with the only option of taking time to process these losses.

Most of us have managed to adjust to the “new normal”, while residents in high-density communities struggle to adapt to regulations imposed under the 21-day lockdown. It makes it difficult to apply the social distancing rule while queueing for a government grant and pension pay-out. We see on TV how they express anger and frustration at the government’s seeming inability to get things right. While their actions are justified, we must remember the spread of COVID-19 has exposed how state capture under the government of Jacob Zuma has left the country almost penniless. Our president needs all the support he can possibly get to turn things around. We must stop being “keyboard protestors” and do our part, no matter how small.

Staying up to date with the latest news, views and analysis of the number of coronavirus cases can easily lead to anxiety and even depression. We, therefore, need to take care of our emotional health. On her podcast, Unlocking Us, Dr Brené Brown shared three learnings that have been life-shifting for her. These learnings could easily be applied during this lockdown period:

1. Anxiety is one of the most contagious emotions - that’s why it always takes down groups of people, not just individuals.
2. Calm is also contagious, but it’s a daily intention and practice.
3. We all have patterned ways of dealing with anxiety that are often set up in our first families. Understanding how and why can set us free.

So far, we have all been washing and sanitising our hands, but other elements need to be kept clean too. A regular daily measure is to clean the floors and kitchen counter regularly. Don’t forget to clean all doorknobs and handles as well.

Saturdays will for a while not be the same; the malls will be empty, and the food courts quiet. It's as if the coronavirus has stopped the world to let the people off. The rat race has made way for simplicity. Having said that, we have unfortunately entered unchartered territory, but I believe that our collective resilience and our ability to adapt to new circumstances will enable us to survive the pandemic.

#LockdownJournal
#COVID19SouthAfrica
#21DayLockdownSA

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 8

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Friday, Day 8:

Today is #Day8OfLockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic causing havoc across the world. While there is never a good time for a crisis, the timing couldn’t have been worse for South Africans. History tells us that in a time of crisis, the first casualty is inaccurate information. I've seen how fake news and paranoia could spread faster than COVID-19 in communities. My plea is to double-check sources before sharing messages with inaccurate facts that could further increase fear.

Here are two accurate facts: (1) There are now more than 1 million cases of coronavirus globally, according to Johns Hopkins University’s tally. (2) The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine scientists announced a potential vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the new coronavirus causing the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s hold thumbs and keep praying.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, the timing of the pandemic couldn’t have come at a time when our nation is facing incredible challenges with unemployment, poverty and crime. I was afraid that the spike in abuse against women during lockdowns in Spain, Italy, China, Germany, Brazil and Greece, would eventually rear its ugly head here. Women in such situations should be allowed to leave their homes and seek help without fear of being arrested. I am sure that we all know someone trapped in such a situation. We have a civic duty to do our part, even if it is to send a "hello, thinking of you" message. The smallest of gestures can help someone in their darkest moment.

There is no shortage of fun and inspiration on the internet. In the USA, celebrities are lending their voices to bedtime stories aimed at lifting the kids’ and parents’ spirits amid the uncertainties caused by COVID-19. Locally a radio presenter and speaker, Liezel van der Westhuizen / @liezelonline invites followers on Instagram to join her live in the mornings for some ‘lockdown’ exercises. Another Instagrammer, Jade Voges / @jade.voges an actress, writer and model from Josi, does live Bible study sessions and even let viewers into her kitchen as she prepares her meal. A young man, Dylan Schovell from Port Elizabeth, offers free online classes for school children.

The proverbial saying "Every cloud has a silver lining" could be applied to the lockdown period as well. On the entertainment front families are posting the most creative and hilarious videos from their living rooms, kitchens and yards. These activities are the memories being made for future throwbacks. Social media platforms will undoubtedly ensure that it pops up on our timelines.

I am extremely grateful for the important work that nurses, doctors, teachers, shop assistants, petrol attendants, refuse collectors, parents, and all others are doing at this time. Let’s smile when we see them saving lives or just making our "locked-down" lives easier.

#LockdownJournal

#COVID19SouthAfrica

#21DayLockdownSA

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 7

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Thursday, Day 7:

Today is #Day7OfLockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It has completely changed the world we live in. Our first week of national lockdown and I am sure that many of you (like me) have found yourselves in situations that we could never have imagined. Its impact has not only resulted in a global health crisis but also a global economic crisis. It has hit our already fragile economy hard. To make matters worse, Moody's has downgraded local banks a week after it gave South Africa a sub-investment grade rating. It’s like kicking somebody when they are already down. But God…

With so much volatility prevailing in every sphere of life, people are looking up to leaders for direction and reassurance. In a time like this we can reach out to God because it might not look like it, but He is reaching out to us. We can see it in the frontline, those often overlooked. They are the essential services workers like nurses, doctors, petrol attendants, bank staff, and shop assistants playing a vital role in ensuring food, money and other necessities are available to us in lockdown. God is everywhere!

Today I am writing and editing a manuscript for a friend. My wife is an essential services worker, so it is a bit quiet at home. I appreciate her getting up early and doing her part for society. Our two dogs keep me company and busy. Those who know me are by now used to the dog video clips and pics I post on my WhatsApp status almost every day.

Let us all stay home because people without coronavirus symptoms can spread the disease. People who don’t have symptoms, e.g. cough or even just fever, can still transmit the disease to others. It is what scientists call the “quarantine loophole.” Please continue to have fun at home by reading, watching television, listening to music, have family chats, and share some “throwback” memories.

God is everywhere, even in the news. That’s why we view every news story through the lens of faith. Here is some encouragement from Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 6

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Wednesday, Day 6:

Today is #Day6OfLockdown and we are indeed living in a very interesting time. One cannot emphasise enough how the COVID-19 lockdown has changed the world and life in it. Now that we're on lockdown, it’s understandable that some of us will start to miss loved ones who have passed away, or those not living with us anymore. The world has really come to a standstill for us all. Embrace these poignant moments; embrace it.

One of the best poems I have read recently is from Gordana Biernat (@MyPowertalk on Twitter). What an honour to say she follows me (name-dropping) on Twitter! Gordana is a writer, speaker, and an Oprah's #SuperSoul100 Teacher. Her purpose is to help people realise how powerful and unique we all truly are.

Here is her poem:

We can’t always choose
the circumstances in our life.
My entire childhood
was about dodging fear.
The freedom lies in knowing
that we (as adults) always have a choice in how we react to the circumstances.
My past taught me how to find light
in the darkest of places.
(Gordana Biernat)

I find this poem to be so relevant during this trying time. As adults, we always have a choice in how we react to the circumstances around us. The current lockdown is no different. But what do we do when we don’t have a choice? I live by a principle that I choose my battles. However, this time the battle chose me; the battle to flatten the coronavirus curve. The virus could show up at our doorsteps, and yet we’ll never really know it’s there since it is invisible and silent. There is one big plus for us in this trying time: The lockdown saves lives. If we remain at home under lockdown, we are fighting the battle against the coronavirus. We will prevail!
I conclude with 2 Chronicles 20:17 (NIV): “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you...”

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 5

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Tuesday, Day 5:

Today is #day5 of the mandatory COVID-19 lockdown. Good news! Last night President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed on national television that the country's downgrade by Moody's to junk status will not derail efforts to fight the coronavirus. It, however, doesn’t stop self-isolation really messing with your head. But South Africa is no stranger to adversity, or to its people joining hands to overcome this crisis. We will prevail be it through prayer, going online for distraction, or engaging in offline activities for the whole family, and enjoying wholesome meals.

I shook my head watching the news and witnessing the irony in the social distancing regulation. We as South Africans would (especially as a rainbow nation) stand shoulder to shoulder through trying times but are now told (Elderly Sassa recipients) to maintain a 1,5-metre distance.

Here is another great idea for lockdown; one of my activities – journaling. It’s always nice to sit down at the end of a day and reflect. What did I do today? What did I learn? What am I going to do tomorrow? Answering those questions could be the best time you’ll spend every day.

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 4

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Monday, Day 4:

Today is #day4 of the mandatory lockdown due to the coronavirus. I woke up to birds chirping and my wife offered me tea or coffee. I’ve read that the Eastern Cape’s COVID-19 cases has risen to 12. The images and video clips posted by newspapers remind of the movie ‘I am legend’. The scenes of our city-centre streets could make for intense material in a Hollywood movie. The fact that the army rolled into Nelson Mandela Bay has just added to the already apocalyptic atmosphere.

The killer virus has shone a light on poor living conditions in the townships. One can just hope and pray that we as South Africans will persevere and come out victoriously. On the upside; the coronavirus seems to have brought families together. It is evident in the increased chats and jokes on WhatsApp groups and even Facebook. It’s done a world of good for our mental well-being during this uncertain time.

Board games are a favourite pastime nowadays. I enjoy chess and Chinese checkers (yes, Chinese!). watching movies is another ‘vaccine’ to prevent our worrisome thoughts to not paralyse us. My favourite author, Seth Godin, once said the best way to complain is to make something. It turns out this is great advice for this trying time we are living in. There’s one huge opportunity brought on by the coronavirus crisis: We have a lot of extra time on our hands. I suggest someone pick up that paintbrush gathering dust in the garage. There’s no such thing as bad art especially if it makes you feel better. You could also build puzzles, play with the dogs, or like me immerse yourself into your writing. Our plans for the next 17 days (or even longer) are cancelled. We only have today. Let’s make the best of it.

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 3

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Sunday, Day 3:

Today is #day3 and it’s a Sunday. Most of us will be “attending’ church online. We will join a “Prayers of Blessings over Families” church service via YouTube due to social distancing rules imposed on the country's citizens.

Yesterday we saw countless videos of citizens clashing with the police and army. We need to accept the fact that lockdown regulations are crucial to saving lives. These are anxious times but as the scripture in Psalm 37:1-2 (NIV) says, “Do not fret because of those who are evil, or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.” We hope and pray that this Coronavirus (COVID-19) will die soon, and very soon.

When you read the newspapers long enough, you begin to pick up on news patterns from around the world. Most of the news was just news to us until a deadly virus in Wuhan, China became a ‘thing’ we ought to take notice of. Today I am writing from my own lockdown home-office because the Coronavirus is threatening our lives.

A friend messaged me about his concerns about not being able to complete his post-graduate education this year. On the bright side the Minister of Higher Education, Blade Nzimande told the media that they have done all they can to ensure that students are able to get their materials and get online. He stated that Higher Education also cannot afford to lose an entire academic year.

In closing, if you are a healthcare worker, first responder, social worker, counsellor, retail employee, soldier, police officer, or anyone out in the frontlines: Thank you for keeping us safe and out of harm’s way! I hope you are well, taking care of yourselves, and finding a way to connect with people you care about.

If you are bored or looking for something to do, I highly recommend some of you do online courses which are free. It will help your CV to stand out. Also, have a look at Google certifications.

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 2

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Saturday, Day 2:

I woke up on day two of the national lockdown to not-so-good news. The rating agency Moody’s has stripped South Africa of its investment-grade rating, downgrading our government bonds to “junk”. A “junk” rating means there's a bigger chance that the government won’t be able to pay back its debts. There is good news though: The BBC reported that new data confirms there has been an improvement in air quality over Europe, an obvious by-product of the coronavirus pandemic.

Staying on the environment, don’t forget tonight’s Earth Hour. Let's #StayHome (we are locked in) and join millions of people from all over the globe and switch off the lights in solidarity from 8:30 PM - 9:30 PM to support our planet and nature.

To come back to the news on the home front, the financial meltdown is a threat to the country’s overall happiness. It has dipped slightly at the start of the lockdown. Day one of South Africa’s lockdown was a mix of sacrifice and disregard from a few. Several people have been arrested for allegedly disregarding South Africa's lockdown rules. There are also reports that a second man was arrested for refusing to self-isolate. Let’s keep doing the right thing as responsible citizens.

Today I’m working to assist students online via our student coaching cluster. I will also spend most of the day writing and watching a bit of Netflix movies and documentaries.

MY LOCKDOWN JOURNAL - DAY 1

My Lockdown Journal 2020 – Friday, Day 1:

It's my wife's birthday! To show my love and appreciation, I wrote her a message and posted it on social media. Oh, I made her a scrumptious breakfast accompanied by a bunch of roses (the rose of Sharon).

Our street is quiet; no cars, no joggers, no-one walking their dogs, no workers on their way to work. Just an eerie silence... The coronavirus has become our 9/11 and our Arab Spring. The coronavirus has changed civilisation; it changed our imaginations. It’s a historic period because mankind will in future (now already) refer to a pre-coronavirus and a post-coronavirus period.

We’ll look at sci-fi movies and acknowledge that the unthinkable can become possible within a matter of days. Science fiction before coronavirus was just that, “fiction”!

The world is concerned with maintaining some sort of normalcy but the truth is that we’ve been swallowed up in the abyss of a pandemic that even medical scientists don’t understand. However, while we’re trying to stay afloat, the pandemic has brought civilisation closer together. We’re in a battle for survival. Let’s stay together!

#COVID19SouthAfrica
#CoronaVirus
#LockdownSouthAfrica