Off the Cuff.

This is my first time writing on this platform, and so I thought I would write about my thoughts on the current goings-on in the world.

The world entered a new decade 5 months ago, with new year resolutions running rife over social media as usual, and optimism for #newyearnewme as prevalent as ever. One month in, and the world we knew and (mostly) loved has changed, most likely for good - this is in one way, a worldwide reset.

I think everyone needs a gentle reminder of the fact that Covid-19 is not the sole cause for the mounting issues that are appearing in all corners of society. In fact, it has really just unveiled some serious flaws that are usually hidden/avoidable in day to day life. The NHS here in the UK is easily the biggest topic in every sense here, as it has always been at the forefront of interest by the population, media and politics. Covid-19 has forced the public to support and even cheer them on in their efforts, the government has had to pump incredible sums of money into the NHS too, reversing 10 years of cuts.

Why, though, does this seem almost like a dream or a bit surreal? It is the 21st century after all, should something like this - a global pandemic - really happen? When the news of a new virus in China first emerged in late December, I'm sure most of you, along with myself didn't think much of it, it would just be another 'blown-out-of-proportion' virus like we've had over the previous decade. A key issue in the modern world, particularly the West, is how we largely avoid any major disasters, so much so that our daily issues are not even comparable to what our grandparents would have dealt with.

I think that the current pandemic, and ensuing lack of clarity and lacklustre action from governments - not just in the UK - has uncovered the biggest issue in society today, and that is democracy. Democracy has always been seen as the solution, a way to freedom and fairness, and compared to the other options adopted by countries around the world it certainly seems this way. However, when you think about it, what are the options? In the UK, there are effectively two parties, we have had Labour or Conservative Prime Ministers since 1918. Is that democracy? Choosing one of two options, and then letting them control policies and make decisions based, generally, on the biggest issues that are more often than not defined by the media.

If I think homelessness is a major issue and funds should be allocated to house, educate and solve this issue, will I be able to portray this view to my government? I'd certainly be able to get a local MP to listen, and that would be that. If a local newspaper picked up a story that somehow highlighted a serious issue arising from homelessness in that constituency, and the story gained traction etc. It would more than certainly be brought up to a higher priority.

In the US, the recent story of a man (Ahmaud Arbery) being shot in cold blood whilst jogging has been a real eye opener in this sense. The fatal shooting took place in February, with the case only being brought against the culprits this week after a video of the incident was shared on social media, even though the incident was known and the shooters had been questioned.

We are meant to be in the most enlightened and intelligent period of human history, yet this in itself may be detrimental. We can look at every area of society and all over the world now, comparing what encourages growth and talent, what makes us truly happy, what really helps in preserving the planet. This doesn't happen, instead we are just observing political campaigns filled with empty promises that are forgotten about, issues that are defined by social media along with the traditional media, and all the while living on a planet that has been prioritised below the global economy.