I notice that I am HUGELY empathetic about what is going on in the world - especially among the already impoverished. I am also angry about the basic inequities in our world as well as within individual countries. I had never really been aware of how much human suffering - especially when it is due to inequalities - impact on me. As I read reports about the inequitable situations (eg the disproportionate number of poor people affected especially among the non-WASP populations) it confirms my belief/bias towards a more socialist and inclusive society.

I did not believe any of the conspiracy theories, but some of it looks increasingly plausible. There are those who will profit from this - in either wealth or power.

I worry that the world is becoming LESS free, cooperative, inclusive and equitable. I worry that some countries will not want to relinquish the power that they have under quarantine/emergency measures. I worry that carrying technology that can track movement will become compulsory.

In contrast to all this, in my country, NZ, there is still a community cohesion around ‘doing the right thing’ to protect others. Our leadership and prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, emphasise that human life matters: people matter. Leadership has been clear, strong and compassionate.