For some, self-isolation is a form of normal by Michelle O'Brien

During the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, people around the world are concerned about where their income will come from. Governments are increasing subsidy and welfare payments to cover the needs of those losing jobs and to encourage employers to keep people in jobs. I hope this situation leads to some reflection about how we have treated those already in need of welfare.

As we struggle to ensure people remain at home, the lack of places for the homeless to self-isolate is now a concern. As the state scrambles to put together places of isolation for them, I hope it leads to reflection on how we treat those unable to keep a roof over their heads.

I am also aware of the plight of the millions displaced from their homes in Syria, fighting to escape a war where a state slaughters its own children, who are living in tents. They have been crowded out of the news at this time, yet nothing has changed for them yet. Meanwhile, they have no way of isolating themselves, and even fewer escape routes now.

I hope we can reflect on that, and on our impotence in the face of such a humanitarian disaster. A disaster that will be replicated all over the developing world soon.

I spent a lot of time in hospital as a child. I’ve lived in religious community and done numerous retreats. I have chronic medical conditions, and am immunosuppressed; I spent two weeks in isolation two years ago due to infection, and have had to spend extended periods housebound over the past five years.

For some of us, this current situation of self-isolation is not unfamiliar, and in some ways what is a new experience for many is what some people have had to learn to adapt to already. I began withdrawing socially about two weeks before being asked to by our PM, and nearly three weeks before we were all ordered to.

I hope that people do manage to reflect on the sad fact that for some of us, this is not that different from other times in our lives; for some of us, this is a form of normal.

If you find this time difficult, I fully understand; it is a huge adjustment when you are stuck at home, wanting to work, to be productive, to do what you can to help. But eventually you will understand that remaining at home, taking care of yourself and those you love, is the best thing you can do. You do this for everyone, not just those who might be more severely affected by this virus, because the system could not cope with the level of sickness that would result if people don’t self-isolate.

When you struggle with it, and feel frustrated because (like me) you are somebody used to action rather than inaction, then try talking to some of us – we might have a few tips on how to keep sane and productive, and how to rest and relax despite the anxiety about an uncertain future.

Be calm. You cannot rush this. So stop trying.

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Each day, we will post a short article by one of Darton, Longman and Todd’s amazing authors, offering a personal reflection on our current situation in life. Sometimes this will be written with reference to one of their books, and sometimes about how they are living in response to the coronavirus and our current world situation. We hope it will give you a taste of the depth and diversity of DLT’s list – books for heart, mind and soul that aim to meet the needs and interests of all.

Today’s post is by Michelle O’Brien, co-editor, with Christina Beardsley, of This is my body: Hearing the theology of transgender Christians, which you can buy in print here or as an eBook here.