The Upside Down
4 years ago, the first lockdown began with a new normal in the wake of a coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Collectively, we were in the Upside Down from Stranger Things.
Fox's Anglo-French adaptation (I use the term very loosely) of War of the Worlds had started on Fox UK. The dystopian drama's eerie stillness echoed the world around us, and 3 years later The Last of Us would explore our fear and isolation.
Like so many, I would need to shield due to a pre-existing health condition. Seeing family and friends would be reserved for social media, FaceTime and fond memories for the foreseeable future... A scary and uncertain future, which echoed a life-changing childhood trauma.
Goodbyes disconnected.
During this era of shared trauma, friends and family passed away (not coronavirus-related). This was made all the more surreal by being unable to attend funeral services in person.
Having lived through personal and shared traumas, it can be seductive to lose faith in things. Last weekend I finally saw more of my family for the first time in 5 years, it was hopeful and life-affirming.
Happy Easter to those who celebrate and may the Force be with you. Always.