Coronavirus diary, Sunday 17 May

So, what will happen when the coronavirus dragon is slain? What sort of life will we lead when, gradually, memories of lockdown, loneliness and fear subside? How will we look back on these mad months of surviving the hidden menace? I think, perhaps surprisingly, we will adapt as we have had to do throughout our lives. There will be no VE Day like celebrations, but an overwhelming sense of freedom and relief, the chance to get on with our lives as we wish, although millions who will have lost their jobs will face difficult years.

Yesterday's world of work. Photo: Michael Brennan/Getty Images

Some changes are inevitable; working from home will help to reduce the commuter rush, with many deserted high rise office blocks in our city centres converted to homes or other uses. Our high streets will come alive again. Business executives will save time, money and our natural eco system by reality conferencing, not flying round the world.

But I believe we will very soon relish the return of simple, everyday pleasures that were suddenly taken from us and which we have missed so much. To be able to walk out of our house any time we like, saying hello to a policeman knowing he is now saving us from criminals not lecturing or fining us. Just think of the pure joy of family get togethers, going out with friends, partying, shopping, seeing our children off to school.

Wales v France, February 2020. Wales are still Six Nations champions!

We won't, I am sure, abandon television that has done a brilliant job entertaining and educating us but can't wait to see blockbuster films in the cinemas. We will be happy to queue for concerts and shows.The reopening of churches and hearing their bells ringing will bring comfort and joy to millions. We can't wait for sport of all kinds to be back, to take part in or watch. Holidays? We may not be able to fly off so easily and cheaply around the world to new exotic destinations but there is so  much treasure here in Britain still to discover. 

If 2020 is the year of fear, uncertainty and separation, let's look forward with hope and confidence to 2021. I can't wait.