Here’s our latest edition to add to KB’s – #TheLockdownStories. We asked Bloco family how they’re feeling being in doors 24-7? What they’ve been doing? And the pros and the cons of #TheLockdown life. Why? It’s good to share!
This edition is from Lawrence, Board Member and Fundraising expert! He’s been part of the Bloco family for a loooong long time and is always cheering us along from the sidelines whilst also helping us and other creatives fundraise to keep going. Lawrence is definitely one of our Bloco angels! He’s also a musician/singer/song-writer and traveller. So many of us are trying to stay connected, stay grounded and stay positive and he’s finding his way to do the same. Have a read to find out how!
Here’s what Lawrence has been up to:
Name: Lawrence
Bloco section: Bloco Board
What have you been up to during your lockdown? I had what must have been the virus for around 10 days, so I’m thankful to be feeling a lot better now. I’ve been moving my consultancy work with arts organisations online, coaching people, taking part in board meetings with Bloco, cooking lots of healthy food and staying creative by producing music and making art. I’ve also been getting good sleeps in – it’s so important at a time like his.
How are you feeling? Strangely calm. People have always said I’m calm in a crisis…and this is a major crisis. I feel fortunate to be in a safe place and connected (digitally) to friends, colleagues and loved ones. It’s distressing to hear about the hardship people are facing around the world. This is unlike anything we’ve known before and I hope we can all pull together online to support each other and help those in need.
How do you feel about your exams/gigs/teaching being off for now? I’m not a frontline teacher or tutor but I work with lots of artists and organisations who deliver creative opportunities for young people. I can only imagine how challenging it’s been to have everything cancelled. What’s been amazing has been seeing creatives online finding new ways to collaborate, learn and share. For those that have access to a wifi connection, there are still ways to connect and get creative. Nothing is like the real thing though, so I really hope we’re all back out there playing music together soon!
What are you finding difficult? I think the hardest thing in a time like this is to stay optimistic about the future – and that makes it even more important to stay hopeful. I do that by reminding myself that this is bigger than all of us and so much is out of control – instead I focus on what I can change by reaching out to people, offering to help where I can and looking after my own health and wellbeing.
One thing that would make anyone smile if they were feeling down right now: Listening to your favourite tune and singing along as loud as you want!
Peace and love to all the Bloco family. Keep well and take care.
Lawrence
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