Today’s diary is a throwback style for me, harkening back to the times when I often wrote about movies and books. I think The Village has done a good job of finding balance during these challenging times — a little hard news, a little laughter, and lots of caring for each other.
In my real life we’re often laughing about what’s happening, but are also stressed and concerned for our family and friends. We have family that is very stressed and anxious right now, and my always emotionally solid girlfriend is struggling as well. I worry about loneliness for my single siblings, who are generally socially active. These are people that have stable living situations, are food secure, and are able to communicate with friends and family. They are not wealthy but have enough financial resources, including unemployment for one sibling, to be ‘ok’ right now. We have gone out of our way to have face to face conversations with friends and family because otherwise we might not be aware of how stressed everyone is, just based on text messages and FB comments.
Without trying to be a scold, or mother hen you, I encourage you to do the same — have long enough conversations with people to find out how they’re really doing, especially those living on the edge and concerned about food, medical and housing costs.
Like others I’ve been doing a little more television watching, and keeping up with my reading list. I’ve got some recommendations for you today that you can do with what you want :)
First up — The small screen
Unorthodox is a semi-biographical movie based on a book that I haven’t read yet. It’s in Yiddish with subtitles, but so well acted that the subtitles don’t get in the way of viewing. I found it fascinating and inspiring
Schitts Creek — a quirky comedy from Eugene Levy’s son, Daniel starring both of them along with the incomparable Catherine O’Hara. Netflix
The Plot Against America — a fictional history of the US had Charles Lindbergh defeated Franklin Roosevelt in 1940. I’m 2 episodes in to the short series, and it’s good. Plot is similar to our current situation. HBO
Hillary — 4 hour long documentary about Hillary Rodham Clinton. I won’t be watching until this summer when USExpat is here to see it as well. We’ll be using the Hulu free 30 day option to view it.
This one may be more interesting to friends and families with children and have Disney+. My daughter has it and the price seems reasonable for what it has to offer.
If art is your thing, or you’d like to see more, check out these sites
There are lots of fun rabbit holes to enjoy on Twitter and Facebook
Virtual travel is an option
Rick Steves travel videos are now available to view either from his website, www.ricksteves.com/...Click on a country, then the Watch option and make a selection. Apparently they’re also available via YouTube
I hope something has sparked your interests, or reminded you of something similar that you enjoy. Be kind to yourself, reach out to check on others, and do whatever the hell you feel like doing in your free time!