Coronavirus diary, Friday 1 January 2021

New Year's Day

Ringing in the new...

So, what will this new year bring? Surely it must be better than disastrous 2020. But we must be cautious, and not expect a return to our lifestyle of 10 months ago. Remember? - we were promised that it would all be over by Easter - the last one - and then Christmas, and look what happened to that. 

At the end of the summer, with infection and death rates falling, and just three months ago with the unexpectedly early clutch of vaccines on the horizon, we looked forward to a promising start to the new year. 

Instead the arrival of the second wave, and the even more infectious mutant coronavirus, or Covid-19, we are again fearful.

Having endured all the hardships for almost 10 months and the unprecedented loss of our freedom, we surely deserve a reward. 

I am optimistic about the new year. We know we are facing more months of worry and restrictions but I think we shall be moving out of the darkness into summer sunshine and relief. 

I think, too, that there will then be an explosion of energy and activity at work and play.

The initial problems of leaving the European Union will have been dealt with. Industry and commerce will be.revitalised, jobs will be created, making up for some of the losses.  We will go to pubs, restaurants, theatres and cinemas, we will flock to sporting events. Freedom will lead to fun, joy and relief. 

It will not be easy, though. It will take years to meet the horrendous cost. But with the fear of death from coronavirus mercifully ended, we can get on with life and enjoy ourselves.

That is my hope and belief.