Keeping it Local: Laughter in Lockdown
How do we keep our spirits up and avoid becoming really low during these unprecedented times, where the entire world is turned upside down and we all sit with the same big challenge? How do we keep laughter present and the blues at bay?
One of the basic human needs is social engagement, sometimes difficult anyway when families are split by oceans, provinces or indeed simply by the lock down regulations imposed in most countries around the globe today.
I have a friend who lives in Australia, a gregarious, fun-loving blondie with a sense of humour to boot and a zest for life. We shared a duplex in South Africa many moons ago before we were both married, and she had a daily early morning ritual of standing in front of the kitchen windows, flashing her pearly whites and shouting “Hello neighbours” to others in the complex. Whether they heard and greeted her in return, I do not know, but I would say, “What if one of these neighbours comes into the practice today for your medical help and asks if you were the crazy lady greeting everyone this morning?” And we’d be laughing like hyenas.
Yes, indeed, our need to engage with others is more prevalent today than it ever was; and life in lockdown has simply exacerbated this.
However, when we think outside of the proverbial box of traditional forms of communication, there are many ways to skin a cat. Cell phones, Smart phones, computers, tablets; yip, modern day technology has helped us to stay in touch and in tune. Yesterday I fired up my computer, and had a Zoom “Meeting” with my group of book club gals in South Africa – Susie Matwetwe and Denise Speedy Gonzalez, who proceeds to tell me that she had been in Zoom’s largest ever e-meeting the previous day – 23,000 just do it renowned brand colleagues all on one call! Wowzers! And then, a day later, thanks to this fabulous technology, I could join our local ladies Bible Study group of some 16 gorgeous gals and we’re having a good old chinwag, sharing stories, tips and ways to keep the spirits up.
And not to forget, if we’re unsure of the whole Zoom meeting thing, what about the trusted video WhatsApp call or text – it doesn’t get easier than this and let’s let good Postman Pat off the hook here. Or we can get on the blower for the simple old landline call (does anyone still use those?) or cell phone call?
I heard a granny ask the government yesterday, “When will I be able to hug my grandchildren?” and my heart bled for her … we all have that need to connect so I challenge you – reach out and make a call; or even, phone someone you know that’s on their own and help them keep laughter in their home, bring a smile to their lips, because let’s face it, we all need to flash those pearly whites at least once a day!
Keep smiling!
Charlene
PS: And a good reason to flash that grin early in the morning – a simple breakfast and a full tummy! Followed by a good ol’ catchup!
Charlene Lamb is a strategic communications professional and has enjoyed an illustrious career in the corporate world before steering her public relations consultancy in South Africa and the United Kingdom. She also enjoyed an exciting time as a journalist in the United States, interviewing many famous personalities. She is married and has three energetic fur babies: her Jack Russells, Chilli, Vlekkie and Sammy and is passionate about primates and the welfare of animals.
