Social Distancing #21
Lucille Spielfuchs @lucillelehr

Berlin, Germany, March, 2020 .

“I don't know how long I've been quarantining for.. I live alone and often spend consecutive days working at home and not seeing anyone. The difference is that it is unacceptable to go out now and, classic me, wants to go out now more than before! 
But, what I'm finding most incredible about this time, is that people are realising how important the previously unrecognised (and under idolised) essential workers are. We could turn the whole system, that divides the poor and rich, around with this experience. Those that aren't given the social and financial opportunity to go to university, for example, end up working the "shitty" jobs and live on small and under paid wages, while the the privileged earn good money and are able to create a lifestyle filled with opportunities. It's not about who works harder (for every type of living is hard) or which jobs are more in demand- it's about which jobs are essential to us as a global collective. 
So, for me, this is a time that shows us what is fundamental to existing (politically, but also personally). It's a time that shows us what kinds of people we really need in this world. It's a time that we can physically see and understand the ever-pressing importance of empathy. 
We have now learned that we are strongest as a collective, and the only way forward is by working together. I hope there's a ripple in humanity; I hope this changes everything even if it scares us. - Lucille Spielfuchs