I’m not one to complain much about the physical isolation, being quite content to do some work, read a lot and chat with my friends on WhatsApp and Zoom. But this morning’s news was definitely not welcome.
As of this Monday, all those over 70 in Buenos Aires will require a permit to go out of their homes. The only exception is going to the doctor or to get medicine. Nothing else. No grocery shopping. No dog walking. Nothing.
The good news is that there are lots of mechanisms in place to help — volunteers doing shopping and walking dogs etc. And even under normal circumstances, in Buenos Aires you can get pretty much everything delivered, and the delivery services are all working. So it’s not the end of the world, and I’m not worried about the practical side of it. But psychologically… well, that’s a different story.
When I read the report this morning I was still in bed. I stayed where I was and cried for a bit. But then I decided to snap out of it, do my meditation and exercises and get on with it.
After all, I can still do my work — and am fortunate to have work, I love my apartment and don’t feel at all cooped up in it, and one of these days I’ll get back to my art. As someone posted on FaceBook, “Our forefathers were called to war. We are being called to sit our the couch. We can do this.”
I hope the seniors lockdown won’t last too long — but you won’t hear me bitching about it any more.
Hi Helen, we heard the latest news from Argentina and wondered how everyone we know who falls into this category will cope. As you say, however, everything can be delivered. Here in Scotland the news is still pretty grim although we are told there are some signs of hope, but how do we get out of this? Nobody knows. We are allowed out for essentials and can get most things delivered but it’s a bit haphazard. Also supermarkets are putting their prices up!!
I understand you having a wobbly I’ve had that too and heard of others who feel the same but in the end we all get up and get on with things. I do find drawing a great help as it takes my mind off things. At least we have social media. Not as good as meeting people and having a hug but so glad we have it. Abrazos, Janette.
Hi Janette — Great to hear from you. The Argentine government clamped down on price guaging early, which is a good thing. I think my Scottish pragmatism serves me well here, and I’m sure it’s the same for you. Stay the course — I truly hope we’ll see you back here later in the year.