Enacting endurance

When the ANZACs landed at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915 they couldn’t have predicted the huge numbers of casualties they would sustain, or the gruelling eight-month stalemate the survivors would endure.

Today, the Coronavirus pandemic is testing Australians in a different way – by keeping us physically separated from many of our friends and family - and experts are saying we might be in this situation for some months to come. So how can we call on the ANZAC characteristic of endurance during this time to help us stay connected with our fellow human beings?

Take advantage of technology. One advantage we have during this crisis is access to technology. Video calling apps like Zoom, Facetime, and Skype are quick, free ways to check in with friends and family. You could arrange a virtual happy hour with a friend, cook a long distance meal together with a family member, or livestream a concert.

Physically distant socialising. Just because you can’t go round to your neighbours for a BBQ, doesn’t mean you can’t have a chin wag over the fence – and a cup to tea. Just remember to keep two metres apart while you’re catching up.

Reach out over the phone. Over the last decade or so texting and messaging over social media has taken over from talking on the phone. Now is the perfect time to schedule a good old-fashioned phone chat with a loved one. Researchers suggest that telephone calls create a sense of intimacy and connection and can be even more beneficial than a video call.

Keep an eye on the horizon. Having something to look forward to can be hugely comforting during times of stress. Remind yourself that this will pass eventually, and you will be able to catch up with your loved ones in person again. Try to think about some fun activities you can plan for in the future, once the pandemic is contained.

For many of us the small day-to-day interactions with other members of our community are very important and we will be missing them deeply. When this crisis is over, make sure to remember how precious it is to have that cup of coffee with a co-worker, drop your kids off at school or day care or have a BBQ with your neighbours.

BACK TO ANZAC SPIRIT