Car park at a DIY centre today and a guy about my age comes over. He’s clearly awkward about talking but just goes for it. Made redundant from decent job in gaming under Covid. Lost house. Phone cut off. Govt help won’t come until
Friday.

I listen and we talk. He thanks me for not shutting him down. He’s embarrassed. Never thought he’d be in this position. Hoping to bump into anyone he knows in the area doing DIY on a Sunday. So far no luck. His clothes are nice but dirty. He looks exhausted and sad.

I give what I have. It’ll see him for a few nights and hopefully make the run to Friday more bearable.

Been thinking about him all evening. And how this disease has changed so many people’s lives forever.

Made me take stock and be thankful. But also be mindful to do more.

I’m worried about what we are going to be left with when all of this is over. And for the vast swathes of our society who are really struggling right now and who can’t see a way out.

I don’t know what the answer is.

I wish I had confidence they’d be protected.

I guess, until we get to vote again, we just need to look out for each other and help where we can. Buy a few extras in the supermarket and leave them for the food bank. Consider a local charity over the Saturday night takeaway. Take the lockdown clear out to the charity shop.

Most important, listen, learn, understand and care for each other.

It’s never been more vital.