What COVID diaries have in common with Samuel Pepys’ 17th-century plague diaries

From theconversation.com

By Mary Rehman

People keep diaries for all sorts of reasons – to record events, work through difficult situations, or manage stress and trauma. The ongoing COVID inquiry shows diaries also have important political and historic significance. The UK’s former chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance’s diaries have been a key source of evidence, exposing the chaos within government at the time.

In my PhD research, I’ve been exploring the COVID diaries of ordinary people, as well as diaries kept during the Great Plague of London in 1665-66. Though centuries apart, these diaries are full of insight into how people react to crises, and have surprising similarities.

From the first lockdown in March 2020, media outlets, archive centres and researchers encouraged people to record their pandemic experiences. Even BBC children’s entertainer Mr Tumble urged young viewers to start a diary.

This has resulted in a large number of COVID diaries being made available in archive collections around the UK, plus many more online in the form of blogs or social media. I’ve been looking specifically at 13 COVID diaries donated to the Borthwick Institute for Archives and the East Riding Archives, both in Yorkshire. Most were originally private documents, offering a more spontaneous, honest and intimate portrayal of pandemic experiences than their online counterparts.

Diaries written during the Great Plague are not so numerous. Of the few available, the most valuable is that of naval administrator Samuel Pepys (1633-1703), whose exceptionally detailed and candid journals form by far the most comprehensive first-hand account of plague-stricken London.

I have been reading Pepys’s diaries alongside the modern COVID diaries, and have been struck by the common themes in how people navigated their pandemic experiences.

Recording statistics

Throughout the COVID pandemic, statistics of cases and deaths were everywhere, and were key to how we judged the impact of the virus. As diarist JF wrote on June 5 2020:

It was time to watch the Corona Virus update and I was shocked to find that over 40,000 people have now died from the disease in this country and it’s not over yet!

Relatively accurate information was also widely circulated in 17th-century London via the “bills of mortality” – weekly lists of deaths according to cause and location. Pepys wrote on September 7 1665:

Sent for the Weekely Bill and find 8252 dead in all, and of them, 6978 of the plague - which is a most dreadful Number - and shows reason to fear that the plague hath got that hold that it will yet continue among us.

All of the modern and historical diaries I have looked at include these statistics – some sparingly, others with meticulous regularity.

The blame game

As cases rose, restrictions were enforced and the effects of plague and COVID loomed large in the lives of our diarists, narratives shifted to confusion and blame. Pepys was largely sympathetic to the government’s handling of the plague and, in February 1666, criticised those who flouted the rules and endangered others:

In the heighth of it, how bold people there were to go in sport to one another’s burials. And in spite to well people, would breathe in the faces … of well people going by.

COVID diarists reacted to those who didn’t follow guidelines in a very similar way, as DR wrote in March 2020:

Not everyone is playing it very well, though, with panic-buying, one last night at the pub and a mass exodus to the coast. Stupid and selfish in equal measure.

The response and actions of the UK government, and individual members of parliament, also afforded much attention. An anonymous diarist wrote in May 2020:

People are being allowed out more but the illness is still out there & there’s no treatment or vaccine yet … There are fewer deaths because of social distancing. If they let everyone get on with the ‘new normal’ surely more people will get sick?

Staying positive

A more optimistic theme to emerge in the diaries was the ability to find positivity amid the chaos. Pepys and modern diarists were thankful for the blessings of health, family and security. They praised those who went the extra mile to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on those around them, despite the risk to their own health. An entry from New Year’s Eve in 1665 reads:

My whole family hath been well all this while, and all my friends I know of, saving my aunt Bell, who is dead, and some children of my cozen Sarah’s, of the plague … yet, to our great joy, the town fills apace, and shops begin to open again. Pray God continue the plague’s decrease!

DW’s diary from April 2020 expressed appreciation for time out in nature, as well as sympathy for others living in more difficult situations:

It was lovely walking through the wood. The air was filled with birdsong. It made me realise how lucky I am to live in a village where I can walk from my front door into fields and woods along defined paths. It must be awful to live ten floors up in a high rise block with two children, and not be allowed out except for once per day.

                       Keeping a diary can be good for wellbeing, as well as recording history. Vergani Fotografia/Shutterstock

Comparing COVID with historical events such as plague, the Spanish flu epidemic and the second world war was a core element of the pandemic narrative, and for good reason. History connects.

It is easy to look around us and see the vast differences between the world we live in now, and that which Pepys traversed almost 400 years ago.

But by exploring the innermost thoughts of people with an element of shared experience, we see that fundamental aspects of the human condition endure. When faced with uncertainty and upheaval, our instincts are to record, find answers, and reclaim joy.

https://theconversation.com/what-covid-diaries-have-in-common-with-samuel-pepys-17th-century-plague-diaries-219274 

Paperwork: I did it – a journal thanks to a fan and a fountain pen

From shawlocal.com/illinois-valley

By Lonny Cain

“I am thinking about starting a journal.”

So I said in late November last year when I wrote about keeping a journal. But I also noted this column has evolved since I began writing it in November 2007.

“After 15 years, I’m pretty comfortable with these chats we have each week,” I concluded. “I have left a trail of thoughts and memories that do reflect a personal journey. A journal.”

So I was undecided as 2023 approached, but there was a lot of great feedback from many in favour of journaling.

A wonderful email came from a reader who told me her father kept a daily diary for more than 60 years, starting when he was a teen.

“Every day he would write,” she said. … “He would switch from writing to printing, and I could see when his handwriting would change with his aging years.

“I learned thoughts he had that I never knew about. I learned how he always kept himself busy and how his extended family would come to him for advice and for help in projects they had. I learned how he worked so hard in the outside when it was cold and snowy.....

“I have much appreciation that I was able to learn more about my father and his thoughts on life,” she concluded, adding, “It was due to him keeping a diary that in later years I have been keeping a diary, although I call it a journal.”

She uses her journal to write about family and what she enjoys in life, details she wants her children to know. She added a note that turned out to be a trigger for me.

“Oh, I almost forgot,” she said, “I love to use a fountain pen when I do journal, love the sound of the nib as it touches the pages, and it does often touch many pages at a sitting.”

Before I say more, I must tell you about the package that arrived in my mail shortly after my journal column. Inside was a 2023 Sierra Club “engagement calendar” with glossy pages that flipped easily over wire spiral binding.

Inside was this handwritten note: “Lonny: Absolutely, you should keep a journal; you love to write. I’ve been keeping one since 1995 and the only downside is they’re in cursive and no one will be able to read them.

“Consider the Sierra Club 2023, 52 weeks and not digital. Happy writing in 2023 and beyond.” It was signed “A Fan.”

I was tempted but unsure I’d keep the daily pace. Then I thought about that email and remembered the unused fountain pen shoved and forgotten in my desk drawer. This would be the perfect excuse to use it. Writing in that calendar book could be fun.

And it was. … and still is. My first entry was Dec. 31, 2022, New Year’s Eve. I have not missed a day since. Thank you to my fan.

I used the journal only to log my writing progress and related activities. This added pressure on me to make sure I had something to write each day.

When the new year starts I hope to expand. I have several journaling “books” around with undated, blank pages. More room to write. More room to share thoughts each day.

Perhaps I will answer the journal question I was considering a year ago: What would you tell your kids and grandkids about this day? This would help make every day count.

And most definitely, I will be doing this with a fountain pen.

• Lonny Cain, retired managing editor of The Times in Ottawa, also was a reporter for The Herald-News in Joliet in the 1970s. His Paperwork email is lonnyjcain@gmail.com. Or mail The Times, 110 W. Jefferson St., Ottawa, IL 61350.

https://www.shawlocal.com/illinois-valley/2023/12/23/paperwork-i-did-it-a-journal-thanks-to-a-fan-and-a-fountain-pen/

 

Here’s how to achieve your new year’s goals

From stvincenttimes.com

By Eddy Smith

The arrival of a new year often ignites a renewed sense of purpose and ambition in many of us. As the calendar flips to 2024, the familiar chorus of “new year, new me” resonates strongly. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with setting new year’s resolutions, it’s crucial to approach them with a mindset that embraces progress over perfection. Avoiding stagnation is key, but so is recognizing that transformation is a journey, not a destination. This dynamic period offers an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and challenges, setting the stage for a year of growth and self-improvement. However, the pitfall of lofty and undefined goals can lead to early burnout or a sense of failure, which is why a more structured approach is essential for sustainable change.

For those who find themselves overwhelmed by the magnitude of their resolutions or struggle with maintaining momentum, the key lies in organization and clarity. Breaking down your objectives into smaller, manageable parts can significantly reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. Start by categorizing your goals into different time frames: immediate, short-term, and long-term. This stratification helps in prioritizing tasks and focusing on what’s immediately achievable. Daily, weekly, and monthly goals offer a more practical approach, allowing for regular progress checks and adjustments as needed. The act of writing down these goals shouldn’t be underestimated. It transforms abstract aspirations into tangible targets, providing a visual reminder of what you’re working towards. This simple action creates a stronger bond with your goals, moving them from fleeting thoughts to concrete plans.

Moreover, maintaining a diary, ledger, or any record-keeping tool can significantly bolster your efforts. Regularly reviewing and updating your goals not only helps in tracking progress but also keeps you accountable. This ongoing process of reflection and adjustment is crucial in navigating the challenges and unpredictability of life. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to modify your goals as circumstances change; flexibility is a strength, not a weakness. Celebrate the small victories along the way and don’t be too hard on yourself for the setbacks. The journey towards achieving your new year resolutions is as important as the destination, and every step forward, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction. Keep in mind that personal growth is a continuous process, and every effort you make contributes to a better version of yourself.

In the pursuit of our goals, particularly those set at the dawn of a new year, it’s vital to address the often-overlooked aspect of financial management. Living within one’s means is a fundamental principle that can significantly impact one’s ability to achieve their objectives. Financial strain, indeed, acts as a barrier, hindering progress and causing undue stress. To combat this, a practical approach is to save a portion of your income – ideally, 10 to 15 percent. This isn’t just about preparing for the unforeseen or building a safety net; it’s about cultivating a habit of financial discipline. Saving consistently helps in reducing the anxiety of unexpected expenses and provides a sense of security that is crucial for maintaining focus on your goals. Furthermore, this practice teaches the value of patience and delayed gratification, qualities essential for long-term success. Instead of waiting on the sidelines for a financial miracle, taking proactive steps towards prudent saving and spending can create a more stable and controlled environment for personal growth.

Another transformative principle to consider is the ‘1% principle.’ This concept revolves around the idea of making small, incremental improvements daily, with the aim of being 1% better than the day before. This approach can be applied to virtually any aspect of life, be it health, skills, knowledge, or habits. For instance, if fitness is a goal, incorporating a few extra minutes of exercise each day can lead to substantial progress over time. If intellectual growth is desired, learning a new word daily or dedicating time to read can incrementally expand one’s vocabulary and knowledge. Even in the realm of personal habits, cutting back slightly on indulgences like sugary treats can lead to significant health improvements. The beauty of the 1% principle lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It encourages consistent effort without the pressure of drastic changes, making it a sustainable path to self-improvement. Keeping a record of these small daily achievements not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also serves as a motivational tool, constantly reminding you of the progress made and inspiring you to continue pushing forward.

Delving deeper into the journey of personal growth and habit formation, it’s crucial to understand the science behind it. Habits, both good and bad, are essentially patterns etched into our brains through repetition. When attempting to replace an old habit with a new one, it’s not just about stopping one behaviour and starting another; it’s about rewiring your brain to form new synaptic pathways. This process requires consistent effort and repetition. Studies suggest that it takes about 21 days to a month of daily practice for a new behaviour to start becoming automatic. This time frame is critical as it allows the brain to gradually adapt to the new pattern, making the task progressively easier to perform. The initial phase is often the hardest, as it involves breaking free from the comfort zone of established behaviours. However, understanding this neurological aspect can provide a sense of control and predictability to the process, making the challenge of changing habits seem less daunting.

It’s also important to draw inspiration from the experiences of others who have successfully overcome similar challenges. Change, especially breaking away from deep-rooted habits, is a universally challenging experience, but it’s far from impossible. A powerful example of breaking barriers is the story of the four-minute mile. For a long time, it was believed to be an unachievable feat, a physical limit beyond the capabilities of a human being. However, this perception was shattered when Roger Bannister ran a mile in under four minutes. This achievement not only broke a physical barrier but also a psychological one, proving that limits are often self-imposed. Since then, thousands have accomplished what was once considered impossible. This story serves as a metaphor for personal challenges; what may seem insurmountable at first can be conquered with persistence and belief. Remembering this can be a source of motivation and reassurance when facing your own hurdles. It’s a reminder that the only true limits are the ones we set for ourselves, and with dedication and the right approach, even the most challenging of goals can be achieved.

This opinion piece ultimately underscores the vital importance of committing to your personal development consistently. The essence of this journey is in ‘showing up’ every day, not just in the physical sense, but with a mindset geared towards continuous improvement. Embrace the new year with a resolution to prioritize your growth and education, breaking away from the self-limiting beliefs of “I can’t.” This shift in mindset is foundational for facing and conquering the diverse challenges that life inevitably presents. It’s about more than just setting goals; it’s about nurturing a lifestyle that fosters personal growth. This includes ensuring you get enough sleep and stay hydrated – simple yet powerful acts that significantly impact your physical and mental well-being. Equally, it’s crucial to manage your mental health proactively. This means being mindful of the content you consume and the company you keep, choosing influences that uplift and propel you forward rather than those that stagnate your growth.

Moreover, regardless of your religious beliefs, making time for spirituality or personal reflection is essential. This practice can manifest in various forms, from prayer and meditation to quiet contemplation or engaging in activities that connect you to something greater than yourself. It’s about finding a sense of peace and purpose amidst the chaos of everyday life. Community involvement is another aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked. Being part of a community provides a sense of belonging and can be a source of support, inspiration, and motivation. It’s a reflection of the adage, “you are the company you keep,” suggesting that our communities often mirror our values and priorities. As you navigate through the year, remember that personal betterment is not a solitary journey. It involves a holistic approach that includes physical health, mental well-being, spiritual peace, and social connection. By prioritizing these aspects, you create a balanced and fulfilling life, capable of weathering the storms and celebrating the triumphs that each new year brings.

https://www.stvincenttimes.com/heres-how-to-achieve-your-new-years-goals/