大象传媒

One of the hardest elements of life on lockdown is not being able to gather with family and friends to mark the special moments in our lives. Birthday parties, anniversaries, religious festivals and weddings have all changed beyond recognition, with events having to be cancelled whilst we all stay in our homes.

But having to isolate from others doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate. It’s time to think outside the box (whilst inside the house), and find ways to show love and appreciation to the people who matter.

The UK’s social distancing measures have been particularly tough for couples who live apart. How do you date when you can’t physically meet? Even cohabiting couples have had to rethink how they conduct their relationships, with dinners out and cinema trips no longer viable. But there are still ways to celebrate special events like engagements and anniversaries, whether you live together or apart.

You may not be able to have a special meal at your favourite restaurant, but if you share a kitchen you can put your glad-rags on and rustle up a three-course meal of your own (supermarket supplies allowing). And if you’re in separate locations, why not set up a video call and make homemade pizzas together (apart)?

You could even have a wine-tasting session with a bottle or two you bought separately, but sample on screen together.

Never has receiving a birthday card through the post meant so much. Although we can’t give gifts in person to those outside of our household, a written note, card, or drawing goes a long way to showing someone how much we care. Buy some stamps and get scribbling.

There is also a plethora of letterbox gifts that you can order online, from flat-packed flowers to chocolate bar greetings.

What about ordering a photobook, to remind a loved one of happy times shared together?

Ramadan is the most important celebration in the Islamic calendar. This year, the month-long period of fasting, prayer and reflection began on Thursday 23rd April, and will end on the evening of 23rd May.

Ordinarily, Muslim households invite friends and family over at dusk for a meal called iftar (when they break the day’s fast) and Tarawih, special nightly prayers. But, this year, there will be no sharing food with neighbours or wider family (unless it’s via Zoom). There will be no prayers at the local mosque. And, perhaps most notably, the Eid al-Fitr celebrations at the end of Ramadan will also have to take place at home this year.

In the absence of large family events and community gatherings, many Muslims have said they will simply concentrate on reflection, worship and charitable giving. With the lockdown slowing life down for many of us, perhaps self-reflection and giving thanks – in whatever form they may take – are things we can all focus on in the days to come.