Tabassum reminds us not to take life for granted as lockdown is being lifted in Bangladesh. She enlists the things we need to do in the post-lockdown period. An exclusive for Different Truths.

Now that we are all going back to our regular lives as if nothing is wrong, let’s not pretend that everything is right and do your part. Please don’t be an ignorant fool to believe in the miraculous numbers that change instantly when words spread. You know better than that.

Here are a few things I think might be useful after lockdown.

Please don’t be an ignorant fool to believe in the miraculous numbers that change instantly when words spread. You know better than that.

1. Separate easily washable clothes from your closet and only wear those to work or wherever. They might be very small in number but it doesn’t matter for the times like this one.
2. For girls, separate a few one-pieces because a pair of sarees/trousers/salwar kameezes can be used for three dresses and it’s also lesser articles of clothing.
3. Wear shoes that are easier to clean. You can use a mixture of water and disinfectant and spray it on and under the shoes.
4. Get a spray bottle and pour some disinfectant in it. You can use them anywhere especially when you are going to the bathroom.
5. Use bags that are easy to clean, like laptop bags opposed to jute or leather bags and such.
6. Make washing hands at frequent intervals a habit. If needed, add a reminder on your phone.
7. If possible, carry an extra mask in your bag so that in case something happens to the one you are using, you have a backup.
8. Avoid jewellery and accessories.
9. Carry as little as possible. Don’t carry an extra file or box or anything unless you need it.
10. Practice as much cashless transaction as possible. Carry limited cash. If needed keep a little note in your wallet to remind you to sanitize your hands after you have touched paper money.
11. Clean your phone, laptops, headphones, wireless earphones charging cables. Also, clean your keys and wallet. Make it a way to clean in the same way.
12. Isolate to the best of your ability. Remember this is not about you, it’s also about those around you. Once you are back home, practice social distancing from your family members and avoid physical interaction with them as much as possible. Stay in your room as much as possible and use your own space. Wash your hands whenever you are about touch things as well. Believe, it can be hard. But it’s the least you can do to protect those you love. Of course, do it if possible. We understand that not everyone has this privilege.
13. A shower is a must.
14. Gurgle with lukewarm water with salt and lemon. You can also practice taking vapour.
15. If you are using one-time-use masks and gloves, make sure to cut them in half before you throw them away. Because dumping gloves, masks etc. are creating new kind of environmental pollution.
16. Avoid going to restaurants and gatherings but if you have to go for takeaway, ensure distancing.
17. If you do see any social distancing rules not being followed, inform the authorities about the situation.
18. Don’t hurt people or cause them to distress unnecessarily. This is a tough time for everyone. Be a little patient and kinder towards everyone. Don’t forget your mental health status.
19. Stay away from rumours and fake news.
20. Post and share awareness in your social media.

Be nicer and be compassionate. And please, for the love of humanity, stop with the attitude, “There is nothing to be done. We will have to live like this.” Because accepting living like this doesn’t mean the virus is gone.

Be nicer and be compassionate. And please, for the love of humanity, stop with the attitude, “There is nothing to be done. We will have to live like this.” Because accepting living like this doesn’t mean the virus is gone. Please put your damn education to use and instead of partying at the first chance, do your part to protect those you love at the least. If you live, the party of this life will never end.

Photo from the Internet