How Long Will Lockdown Last? Words Of Wisdom To Soothe Our Beings

Meaningful words can help us through lockdown

I recently read a beautiful quote, a piece written in a newspaper from the American photographer Alec Soth, who was asked about his artistic response to the spread of the coronavirus and lockdown. The image he shared was one of a letter held in his hand against the backdrop of a spring day.

He described his years corresponding with a man who has been in prison since 2003. Although our experience of a global lockdown is quite different to that of a person incarcerated for criminal behavior, the similarity still stands in the form of adjustment and a new reality of confinement.

The inmate had written back to Alec with his take on imprisonment and a particular viewpoint which Alec shared within the article.

“It all boils down to limits. Whether enforced, by nature, biologic or social, tangible or abstractions. We all confront the parameters of our cage eventually. What we do when we reach those bars helps define us.”

I wonder how this time will define us as individuals, as a nation and globally. Powerful truths such as these can help us reflect on our time in lockdown and our experience of enforced stillness.

What are the parameters of your cage? And what might it look like? Wellness coaching has been enlightening to many during this time, providing deeper clarity on who they are and what confines or blocks an individual from growth, prosperity and the ability to thrive.