Worst of times, best of times

Dearest Koko,

These are really strange times that we are living in. I am both happy and sad that you have to witness this at such a tender age. A new virus has decided to stake claim upon this world and it is not sparing anyone. The COVID is what humanity’s worst nightmare is made up of.

A lot of people have lost their lives already and we do not have a cure for it yet. The WHO have declared it as a pandemic and people around the world are very scared. So are you, my little human and there is nothing wrong in being a little scared. At these times, being scared is perhaps the most legit feeling ever.

As we are quarantined and trying to make sense of this weirdness, something beautiful is also happening. Neighbors are chitchatting and actually asking about one another’s well being, family and friends are making time to call each other and have conversations, people are dusting their old guitars and breaking into a tune, some are painting or trying out origami, the waft of new recipes are in the air. People are eventually bored of Netflix and having dinner together at the table and talking to each other. We are playing so many board games! Life has slowed down. Remember those stinky Venice canals? Swans and dolphins have been seen there now.

This too shall pass Koko. I don’t know when, but this too shall pass. Contrary to my usual style, let me inflict upon you some parental guidance – there are lessons to be learnt here. Be grateful for the privilege that we enjoy to be trying out new recipes and not worrying about what will be for dinner tonight. There are many who are going through a very tough time. Second, let’s never ever let a virus remind us of how valuable this time is – let’s always talk to each other and have fun like this.

Love you,

Ma