My street, along with many others across the country, had a rapturous round of applause to show our appreciation for NHS staff and key workers during these difficult times. It's now become a weekly event, which seems to be getting louder each week.
I think its great to both show our appreciation, and in bringing our community together. Its also nice to see and wave to others in the street, which feels eerily quiet at the moment.
I've also seen lots of people sewing scrubs, leaving out thank you notes, rainbow decorations, bears for a bear hunt... so much posivitubity and community spirit in what really is a very strange time. The government have wiped off NHS debt and hopefully Boris Johnson's recent experience will make them more aware of the importance of a properly funded health service.
However, how long will this continue? I'm sure we won't instantly go back to normal, and will be a gradual return to normal with some social distancing. Will we still clap every Thursday if non-essential shops back? What about when schools return? When people can leave their homes under their own volition? Surely the 8pm applause won't continue forevermore, once life returns to normal, but will it just suddenly stop?