As we neared the Easter holidays last year, we were in the early weeks of lockdown one. We were all coming to terms with the pandemic and restrictions on our life style, but if you are anything like me you thought this was a short term issue and whilst it was a shame to cancel plans and not see family, that it wouldn’t be for too long and it was an opportunity to get some things done in the garden, have a break and look ahead. The weather is always changeable at this time of year but we were blessed with sunshine and whilst everything to do with a pandemic and lockdown was scary, it was something we were going to battle through. How wrong was I?
Nearly a year later we are going into this Easter still with restrictions in our lives but, with the hope that these are being gently released and that there is light at what has been a very long tunnel. If like me you need some form of overnight accommodation to open to be able to see your family, we are not quite there but we are edging ever closer thanks to the wonders of science and the amazing work of the NHS in rolling out a vaccine programme, which is the envy of many.
Easter is always a time of hope. Whether you engage with the religious aspects or not it is spring, the clocks have just changed and there are spring flowers and lambs in the fields. We cannot help but believe that there are lighter times ahead.
For many people the events of the past year will never be forgotten and there is much grief and suffering for people to come to terms with. No-one would like to repeat the year and if we knew last Easter what we know now, we would have been very scared indeed.
Through this period though, many people have learnt much about themselves and their families, their friends and work colleagues. There have been incredible examples of selflessness, of kindness and community. As we get to enjoy the bank holiday at the end of this week, and many people get the chance to meet family and friends once more, we should spare a thought for those who have lost so much in the last year and the grief they have to live with, for those who are still suffering the effects of ill health and for the key workers of our community many of whom will once again will be working .
If there is one thing though the last year must have taught all of us, it is to appreciate the small things in life and especially family. If you get the chance to see your family even though only outside and without hugs enjoy it, if you get to watch the lambs in the fields or get a bunch of daffodils or a chocolate egg, enjoy the moment.
So, on behalf of the partners and staff of Jacksons, have a very happy Easter and don’t eat too much chocolate!
Jane Armitage, Managing Partner
