In times to come when they will write up various theses on this pandemic and how we reacted to it — and they will do thesis upon thesis on it as we revise every aspect of it, there will be a map drawn up which will show how we have reacted to the different stimuli and restrictions along the road.
And when it comes to this week, there will be a positive turn, one that see the road go downhill to the place we want to go. Like one of those hills you freewheel down on a bike.
There is no doubt that there is a upbeat sign in the air around our towns and villages this week. On a stroll through town yesterday, I spoke to many owners and staff, down on their knees scrubbing floors, clearing windows displays, polishing up the outlets before the re-opening this weekend.
On the streets too, there were many people excitedly rushing by, clutching their bags of long-desired loot. Cafe owners are just waiting for the day when they can bring you out your sandwich again. Clothes shops just cannot wait to have you try on dozens of outfits again. The heart of Galway and all the towns and villages in the region have been beating to a slower beat this past while, but they have merely been waiting for the day when it is safe again to welcome you all back. And that day is closer.
As we get up to speed again over the coming weeks, we are reminded to do so in a responsible manner. If you see a crowded place which you deem to be not safe, then act upon your impulse and steer clear until the congestion has been diluted sufficiently.
If you can support your local community and economy, please do so. It is going to be a very hard time for business ahead, and we have to remember that it is these businesses that make life fulfilling — the cafes, the bookshops, the supermarkets, the clothes stories. They provide the ingredient for an enjoyable time out in our own space. If these places are to be denied our business, then they will suffer and in many cases, will not stay re-opened for long. Summer is here. The footballers play Kerry this week, the hurlers play Limerick. Their fortunes will occupy our minds. Seasonal sounds will abound.
There’s a buzz in the air, the vaccination numbers are motoring along and we are well on our way to getting out the other end of this. But we still have to do our bit. Be safe, be supportive and be satisfied this week, and enjoy your local place. Responsibly.
