We are never truly alone writes Roy Edmonds

Edmonds Towers is getting a gradual (very slow) spring clean; so is its garden, where we’ve hoisted our summer parasol like a gallant flag. I even saw our ivy-hedge robin again, always a good omen.

There’s been hardship for all with this dramatic, even disastrous change in daily lives. She Who Knows was suffering an arthritis flare-up and so very vulnerable. Fortunately her trusty, old retainer (me) remains in reasonable health, thanks to a homely diet, in-house exercise and drinking less since nearby pubs closed.

Apart from my grocery shopping we’ve largely stayed at home, while sending best wishes to indomitable mother-in-law Wynne, recovering from pneumonia in a respite centre.

‘Social distancing’ needn’t mean being out of touch with everyone. Social media helps, plus phone calls and notes, even occasional chats to neighbours over fences.

Most importantly, we needn’t be distanced spiritually. This is a time to unite us, perhaps rediscovering what’s at the heart of our lives.

I’ve been reading more and enjoyed a poem which advocated remembering all our good things in the day, as we go to sleep at night – so as to hold on to and awaken to them. In my case this would be watching someone loved at last recovering from ill health; but also smaller triumphs, like seeing the garden, or a corner of our home, looking more cared for after a tidy up.

Then there’s the joy of reading others’ stories, biography or fiction - which isn’t just ‘made up’, by the way. Instead these come from another’s experience, thoughts and sentiments, bringing us all closer together – across the world and even through time.

All these good things remind us we’re fortunate and never truly alone.

* For Roy’s books on Kindle or in paperbacks visit royedmonds-blackpool.com.