During a pandemic, everywhere goes into lockdown, except Singapore which uses an unusual sounding term to my ear - "circuit breaker". Well, here I am now in my room isolating due to catching the virus and so I learn the wisdom of Singapore, for this time alone is truly a circuit breaker in life.
On first learning of the possibility of my contracting the virus, I went into shock and then denial, followed closely by forcefully diving into acceptance and doing something about it. What caused my forceful, personal response, acting not to be driven by denial? I hold it is my key sense of responsibility and my commitment to human solidarity and respect. Not by accident, these remain with me as the three key words I have learnt from the experience of this pandemic. I could do no other.
What have I found as I spend time alone? Life is truly fragile. One's tenure over life is fleeting. So much that may seem important simply goes to one side. The busyness about time consuming, essential matters and tasks just subsides. The importance that one places on so many daily relationships is placed within perspective. While they add to the colour of life, they come and go. Key to sustaining a life that makes meaning is the invested, purposeful engagement we have with primary others in our sphere of influence. That takes a lot of work. We invest too little in such essential engagement and too much in what is easy and fanciful. Still, no matter what, life goes on. It is true that no one is indispensable, not even me.
Circuit breaker is a good term to name this experience of human lockdown, shared or individual. For better or worse, it makes you stand back and look at life, reflect on what really matters and hopefully appreciate with renewed vigour what are the true treasures of a worthwhile life. Perspective is the gift it offers.
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