But that kind of life, for me, would mean I wouldn’t have time to do all the other things I enjoy – and I am far too lazy. So it seems I like to know that I ‘could’ do these things if I had to – but I’d rather not have to. There’s a line. How far down the chain am I prepared to go? Which things do I enjoy doing, and which will I pay to not do – which things do I depend on others to do? What things can I not do, even if I wanted to?
The last few months have made me appreciate the things I do depend upon – particularly water, electricity, gas, and internet connection. But also the ability to get food when I want it, and purchase everyday items, such as light bulbs and toilet rolls, when I want them. But I hadn’t really considered my health – until I was stung by a wasp. I’ve been stung before and, after the initial ‘ouch’ and applying vinegar, I’ve generally ignored them and forgotten about them the next day. This time I had a reaction. I went to the chemist to get an antihistamine cream. The next day I went back to see if a tablet would be better. The pharmacist took one look at the sting – the swelling and the hot red patch and told me to see a GP immediately. After an e-consultation, where I had to send photos of the reaction, I was given antibiotics.
Although I like to think I am pretty independent and self-sufficient, and can turn my hand to most things, I rely on others much more than I had realised. And I now appreciate them all a lot more.
