It’s my birthday today.
We’re still in lock down, with the distinct possibility of it being extended to 6 weeks.
I have too many eggs. Seriously.
Even having 4 this morning (my eggs aren’t that big) for breakfast… still leaves me with 12, and I haven’t had the ones they’ll lay today yet. Add another 2-3 to the ones I got. And another 2-3 tomorrow…
I’m extremely remote, so no one comes by. Next time I hear the post woman, I will attempt to ask if she’d be willing to take at least 6 of them to pass on to someone who may be struggling. No idea if that’ll work, but hey. Worth a try.
I also emailed the church, even though I’m not a religious or churchy person. In fact, I want nothing to do with the catholic church myself — but they do look after vulnerable people. So I asked if they’d like the extra eggs, if I drop them off at the church, and if they do, to also let me know if there is anything they are desperate for, that I can add to my shopping list next time I need to shop.
We can all do a little bit and make life easier for people. Doesn’t have to be much, but just asking (even through the door, or by leaving a note) if the neighbor needs anything will help.
Here in France, there are many elderly people living on their own. France is very big on keeping people out of retirement homes for as long as possible, provided they are not in any danger of neglect. But at times like this, that makes them quite vulnerable. And lonely. The children may have moved a long way away, and can’t travel to look after the parents. So they are left to their own devices, being looked after as best as possible, when there is already a strain on everything.
There are also younger people who struggle, let’s not forget that either.
One of my worries is that, with the schools closed and people confined at home, there will be many people in dangerous domestic situations, exposed to abusive partners or parents, with no way to escape.
So keep your eyes and ears open and report it if you suspect abuse.
Personally, I’m very grateful to a friend of mine, Justin Shaper, who came by two weeks ago to chop up my wood — because that’s what’s keeping me warm right now. I’d have been struggling without that, because it’s been so very wet all winter, the pile outside is…soaked. Every bit of paper or cardboard is hoarded to start the fire.
But really, we can all do a little bit.
It doesn’t matter who. It doesn’t matter if you agree with their views. It doesn’t matter if there is a language barrier. We’re all human, and that is what matters. Humans helping humans.
For all you know, the person you have nothing in common with, might be the one who saves your life. Because it goes both ways. If you help them, they will probably look out for you, too. You may make a new friend.
Many foreigners here in France don’t speak French well enough to converse. I certainly don’t. I take lessons, and I’ve improved, but I’m a long way from being able to have a conversation.
There are plenty of apps that will get you around language barriers. Use them.
We started an “Animal owner network” of sorts, so that if you are hospitalized — you can alert people who can organize someone to look after your critters.
The other day, we had a french lady ask if it is only for English speakers.
It was a resounding “No!”. Everyone, regardless of language, is welcome.
I don’t care if you are British, German, Swiss, Dutch, Belgian, Swedish…etc etc. If you need help, then you need help, and everyone will try their best to assist.
And that’s how it should be.
Let’s put the whole nationality thing aside. We’re humans. Period.
It doesn’t matter where we come from, or where we live.
So if you can help someone, please do.
Go out of your way to find ways to assist, without putting yourself or them in danger of infection.
If you live on a road people travel to get from A to B, and you have produce you are not going to use (Eggs, veg, salad etc), why not put them on your mailbox with a note that people can help themselves.
But remember: No touchy. 🙂
Stay safe!