WALID AMHAMDI, 18, London at Menace
reflecting isolation
F WORD: How have you been dealing with the whole isolation thing?
WALID: In the beginning, I thought that this was the break I needed so badly. The first 3 days were refreshing, but now I've had enough. We’re human, we need social contact, we need to go out for some fresh and socialize with other humans. Our education also is an absolute must. This isolation is holding us hostage from all the fun things we used to take for granted. You never really appreciate what you have until it's gone. This is definitely an eye-opening situation, proving us that 'la vie est belle' and that we should be more grateful.
F WORD: What have you been doing to occupy your time and mind?
WALID: I've decided to keep on stimulating my productivity. My daily routine contains more than 'eat, sleep, repeat'. I'm watching interesting documentaries, watching fashions shows, reading books, etc. I'm really trying to step out of my comfort zone and learn new things. So, all of that is on my daily menu. I also try to do the things we normally tend to push aside. I live in the countryside so a morning run between the horses and the cows is always refreshing, of course, I try to do this safely.
F WORD: How are you feeling about the COVID-19 pandemic?
WALID: Who saw this one coming, to be honest? We're going through a rough patch. This pandemic is truly one for the history books. It is important that we stick together, remain positive and supportive during this period and afterwards too. The COVID-19 pandemic doesn't know race, gender or language. We should all stand together, help one another and most importantly: be safe. After rain comes sunshine but behind the clouds, the sun always shines, and that's what keeps me motivated!
F WORD: What are your thoughts on how our government and the world is dealing with it?
WALID: The government was caught by surprise by this pandemic, I think they underestimated the virus. Lately, plenty of people are criticizing their choices and measures. Talking about how the precautions came too late. I'm convinced that this negativity won't help clear up the situation. We, as citizens, should admit that. We're fighting the same enemy. I strongly believe that with some goodwill, the measures of the government, the incredible work of the health care workers and scientists, this virus will be over. That's why we must do our part by staying inside.
F WORD: What would be your perfect soundtrack for this time?
WALID: Gil Scott Heron's 'We almost Lost Detroit.' It's not a mainstream song, but in these difficult times, I think it's a song that strikes. It pushes you to think about someone or something in a particular way. It makes me enjoy the little simple things in life. I feel like even though the song was about another issue, written in a totally different period we can all relate to the lyrics today.
F WORD: Can you suggest a movie/series/or book we should check out during isolation?
WALID: I would suggest 'Marriage Story' which is a drama movie which came out in 2019. 'Marriage Story' managed to be one of that year’s best thrillers, comedies and romcoms all at once. A tender, taut gem of a film that will make you reconsider love and loss. According to Empire Online.
F WORD: A hopeful statement to encourage others:
WALID: My mother used to say this all the time: “Good health is a crown worn by the healthy that only the ill can see.” Now that I'm older I've come to understand what she meant with this quote. That's why I try to enjoy life to fullest. Health is way above everything you can have in life and we take it for granted. We should care more about our health, especially our mental health. It’s very important to surround yourself with positivity and people who contribute to that.
F WORD: Favourite f-word:
WALID: Future. It’s important to remember there’s always a tomorrow with new opportunities. Hope has bright eyes and if you have hope, you have everything, right?
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