Dear Doc,
7 a.m.
A few days ago, my daughter told me she would like to go to the “Black lives matter” protest happening in our hometown today. But she also immediately said she was worried about putting me at Covid-related risk. Without much though I told her, “Sara, you can go, and I will go with you”. I am very proud of my daughter’s views on all subjects related to humanity and human rights. Both her dad and I are not racist, not nationalists, not homophobes, but we never went to parades or were actively involved in any kind of protests with the aim to fight against those who spread hate. Sara’s sense for justice in the world, for equality and diversity, against hate is even more pronounced in her than it ever was in me or her dad. She is a deeply positive and socially sensitive person that is prepared to fight for her beliefs. The reason I agreed that we should go to the protest is that I know how much such happenings are important to her.
The protest is today, and yesterday I panicked and felt like I had made a stupid and irrational decision by agreeing to go to a protest during a pandemic. It came to me during yesterday’s Government briefing with health secretary Matt Hancock. I suddenly realised that going to the protest is very dangerous and almost illegal. I wanted to reconsider but Sara was disappointed. So, we had to find a solution. We will arrive a half an hour later, we will wear masks and gloves and we will stay as much as possible at the edge of the mass. The protest looks well organised, with each person having a spot that will be 2m apart from others. I am still very anxious to go but I wish to support my child and all in what we both believe. Some decisions are hard.
10.30 a.m.
Sara woke up several hours earlier than usual in order to finish painting the signs we will take with us to the protest. My anxiety has weakened in the last few hours and for the moment I am just annoyed with the very bad weather and my stomach-ache that has been a problem for more than two months now. I’ll need you soon related to this problem.
1.35 p.m.
The temperature outside is barely above 10 degrees and there is a chilly breeze together with frequent rain. I have taken my black winter coat from the wardrobe as it is cold and also because Sara told me that everyone at the protest should be dressed in black. My mood lifted during the morning and I am kind of excited to go to the protest now. Sara is in a good mood too. This is going to be one very insightful experience; that is for sure. Soon we are going to leave the house.
4.50 p.m.
We arrived at the protest on time and stayed at the edge in spite of people following social distancing. We were unable to hear almost anything that was said at the front and even the music was too quiet and distant from where we were standing. Still, after only a few minutes upon arrival I felt deep inner happiness and peace. It was great that I managed to overcome my dilemmas and anxiety and got a chance to share this noble protest in company of my great daughter. She impressed me with dedication when I suggested to move a bit further forward. “No, we stay at the edge, that was the deal”, Sara was strict. “What is the schedule for 3 p.m.?” I asked as I wanted at least to guess what is going on at this point. “Nothing we can hear from here, if you are bored think about your Doctor”. That made me laugh. So, dear Doc, we had a busy and remarkable day, but we did not forget about you. 😊
Kristina
Saturday June 6th, 2020
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