By Tom Molloy
Hi all, and welcome back to my final year diary. March is upon us. It’s almost been a year since this country went into lockdown for the first time. I think it’s fair to say it’s the most surreal year any of us have experienced. At the time of writing, 4,319 people have died from Covid-19 in Ireland. On the upside, however, a vaccination programme has begun, albeit in a slower fashion than we’d like.
The absolute devastation, tragedy, and grief that this virus has inflicted on Ireland and the wider world means absolutely nothing to some people, however. A large crowd gathered in Dublin on the last weekend in February protesting “against lockdowns”. It would be laughable if it wasn’t so dangerous. People wearing hoodies with “RTÉ Sold There[sic] Souls” printed on the back of them. As to what that means, your guess is as good as mine. These people live in a fantasy world where everything they read on Facebook is true.
It’s understandable that during times of stress, anxiety, and insecurity people will be more drawn towards conspiracy theories. This is no excuse for stupidity though. When one reads the absolute nonsense that some of these people are coming out with, one can only feel sympathy for their families. Imagine spending lockdown with that level of delusion. Some of the theories I’ve read are just outrageous. The Sunday Times spoke to one person who was talking about a massive conspiracy involving missing people and keeping RTÉ’s top stars looking young. We’ll all celebrate when this pandemic is over but, Jesus, some people are beyond medical help.
In brighter news, literally, spring is well and truly upon us. Saoirse and I are going to attempt to get back in touch with our walking routine from last summer. There should be some beautiful locations for walking or hiking in your vicinity no matter where you are, especially when travel restrictions are relaxed. Down here around Limerick we have loads of places. Hiking in Moylussa or Keeper Hill, or just a leisurely stroll on the grounds of Curraghchase or Glenstal Abbey. Every county has loads to offer.
We have to take positives from all of this, and I think one of those positives is finding a new sense of appreciation for this country. I believe springtime really brings it to life. This is a positive appreciation for what this country has to offer, completely different to the brain-dead, ignorant, and toxic “love” for Ireland some “patriots” drone on about.
Anyway, thanks as always for taking the time to read my ranting. Stay safe and I’ll talk to you later.
