These unprecedented times could change us all forever

As my daughter pointed out yesterday, 2020 is going to prove a rich seam of material for future historians to mine.

Remember the seismic shift that was set to define this moment for a whole generation?

A little thing called Brexit?

No, seems a liftetime ago now, doesn’t it?

The coronavirus outbreak feels like something of a far higher magnitude.

The Government’s announcements on Monday and Tuesday have shifted the way our society, our economy – our whole lives are going to run.

At the sharp end, there are those going through real pain and heartache as the reality of the virus hits home.

This week, a family just down the road in Sheffield was left mourning the loss of a loved one – the first suspected death from Covid-19 in the city.

We’ve seen shelves cleared of dried goods and loo rolls, shopping malls eerily empty and now the very real threat of pubs and restaurants going bust – even with the unprecedented financial support announced by the chancellor.

It is also a worrying time for the elderly – who are among the most at risk of developing serious health problems if they catch the virus – and who also face the pain of loneliness if they are forced to quarantine themselves.

For some, the wonders of the 21st century digital age will mean they can still keep in touch with loved ones via video-links and computer hangouts.

Though I also know people who have joked about which they fear most – the deadly virus or the thought of weeks trapped inside with their other halves.

Everyone needs their own space, but the radical change in how we live our lives has thrown a spotlight on our relationships and our families.

If there is any silver lining in these dark darks, it may be that as families are forced to spend more time with each other, it brings us closer together.

That as supply chains tighten, we become more self sufficient and understanding that maybe being able to buy fresh raspberries for your new year party feast really isn’t a good idea for a number of reasons.

However we come out of these strange times, we won’t be the same.