We are in a pandemic. Yes I know we “know” we are in one, but please remember the effects this will have on you or your loved ones. What do I mean and what am I really saying…
I spent the first 10 years of my life in a war-torn country. A country that knew no boundaries on the rules of engagement. No peace for the innocent by-standers. This was a country where fear ruled and discrimination cut swathes through its coursing lifeblood.
The posters on the walls warned you “These walls have ears….shhh!!” I remember being fascinated by the picture of the ear in one poster and the lady pursing her lips against her finger in another. I remember the war drills we had to undergo at school, where teachers dressed in camouflage and balaclavas, would rush around and across our playgrounds. We had to lie flat on the ground and await the bell or whistles to say this was over. I remember the “idyllic” lifestyle we all led in Rhodesia, or so we were told. I remember swimming pools, BBQs, Lion lager and watching adults puffing away on Madison cigarettes. Yet, I recall my father having to leave on duty, away for periods of time where we had no clue on when or if he would return. The feeling of dread, ignorance and fear never seemed to be far away. Was I too young to remember or even as I got older, stifled the effect it all had.
