A Distancing that Brings People Together

A walk is such a blessing during this confinement period!

 

After emerging from my voluntary confinement following my sister’s funeral, I took note of the various posters; one in particular attracted my attention: “walking groups” with four different schedules. That is something I appreciate… having greatly missed my daily walk during my 14 days in isolation.

In addition, since three mealtime schedules have been set up we practically only see the Sisters of our respective floors. I opted for the 2 p.m. walk which brings together around 40 participants. It’s an excellent opportunity to greet our “invisible” companions as well as our lay friends since a certain bonding has already taken place…

 

Walking schedule

 

The person in charge of leisure activities accompanies the group and signals the order to depart — without forgetting the DISTANCING instructions. We all walk at our own pace and return freely to the Residence within 30 minutes. This outdoor atmosphere intoxicates us with fresh air and encourages reflection since there are practically no cars circulating, no construction going on. Each one is free to choose several walks since there are many options: 10 a.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., or 7 p.m.

It’s a much appreciated evasion: exercise, tonic for the lungs, beneficial meeting with friends…though rather fleetingly… Some schedules even allow you to admire a beautiful sunset on your return. What more can you expect! That this time of seclusion will not – after all – drag on forever!!!

Together let’s hold on… for the COMMON GOOD!

 

Lucie Larouche, fj, Trois-Rivières, Québec

 

At a distance yes, but what we are.

Everyone at the window at 8 o’clock

The rallying call began on the social networks. Every evening, at 8 p.m., the French, like the inhabitants of other countries in Europe, are invited to open the window and applaud the health professionals mobilized in the fight against the coronavirus. One by one, the Sisters of the Rue d’Arras have responded, “Present! »

Apparently, the initiative leaves some caregivers indifferent, they have other priorities. We continue to do it anyway, because we’ve found that we need to maintain some sort of social connection. A ritual has grown up – before we start applauding now, we look to see which neighbours are there. We greet each other with a wave of the hand, “Good evening! Where were you last night, then? ” We hear the pizza deliverers on their scooters honking their horns, and the few joggers that are around run while clapping their hands. And when it’s all over, we shout, “See you tomorrow! »

 

Sr Rhona, fj, Parie, France

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