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In Conclusion of The Lockdown Series

by Eden Benibo

Joy. Tears. Laughter. Pain. Death. Life
Lately, I’ve been taking deep breathes. A whole lot has been happening, but in all, more than ever before, I’ve come to realize the power of telling our own stories.
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Over 70 Lockdown Stories • 11 Countries • 1 Anthology

Featured Art By: CoilyandCute

Countries: Nigeria • Ghana • Burundi • Italy • USA • United Kingdom • Sweden • Cyprus • Ecuador • Turkey • Sudan
I’ve been working on a collection of lockdown stories. It has been most fulfilling and awe inspiring thus far.
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…and some day, when all this is over, we would look back and smile.
Because we came through it all.
And whilst the DEATH that came with COVID-19, we were a part of a LIFE birthed.
The birth of an anthology that carries: Our Stories • Our Song • Our Truth
An Anthology that would tell our stories even long after we are gone.
An Anthology that would sing our songs to generations yet unborn.
An Anthology that would serve as a fountain of the truth of how we lived through the days of COVID-19.
How it came. How we saw. And how we conquered.
Hey, if you have survived through the beginning of the COVID-19 phase till date, then you have conquered a lot in your own unique way. You are a Champ!
COVID19 • Rape • Murder • Crime • Fear •Uncertainty
Has life always been this fragile?
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…glad to have covered over 70 different stories all beautiful in their uniqueness.
Stories of:
how we fought wars that bring peace.
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how our health workers led this war.
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how the COVID-19 days masked more than our faces. Masked more than illness.
Covered evil • Deceptions
World Rape • Murder • Word Depopulation • Crime • Pillage
•Racism:
(because “the true dis-ease is our disconnectedness)
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how some of us looked fear in the eyes and went on with our WEDDINGS. Rewriting our love stories. Because ” most times, the WILL is all we need.”
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how the days of COVID-19 badly burnt the homeless, the poor and even the rich. Yet, the scars only served as a map to thrive beyond all odds.
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how we adjusted to the new normal, and rose above the boredom, setbacks, depression.
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how many stayed: Productive • Creative • Charitable
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how more than ever before, we cherished each passing time, knowing how fragile life is, especially with the pain that comes with losing a loved one.
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how some of us added weight physically, while some others added mentally. All beautiful
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how the lockdown was a worldwide holiday. A time to breathe. A time to pause in a fast paced world. A time to learn, unlearn and relearn. A time to rethink and restrategize. A life changing time in all.


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how the lockdown made “sugar and salt battle for dominance in a chilled glass of water.”
COVID-19 hunts at neither a particular race, gender, age nor religion or status, but blood.- Humanity.
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how we lived in a phase filled with so much uncertainties. It was never easy, yet we hoped “we would be proud we never went on lockdown in our hearts and minds.”
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how we searched for God in all of this, not knowing he was right there in our actions and inactions. The kindness, love, hope shared. Our God in all magnificence was right there in all these little things that matter the most. And there lies the answers.
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On The Stories Published
At first, I thought 30 would be the highest number of published stories for the Anthology. But the stories kept coming. Each story so unique, making me tell more people, who told more people.
And here we are now! 😊
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I AM UTTERLY GRATEFUL

-To God, for the strength and (vibes) to carry on with this project till the end, even on days when life seemed like an empty bottle floating on the oceans.

-Grateful, for the impacts made beyond my wildest imaginations.

-Grateful to everyone who is a part of this.
Your stories reached even places (countries) you and I have probably never been to.
You touched a heart you do not even know by simply telling your own story!
You. Are. Amazing 🏆


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Long Live Our Stories• Our Songs• Our Truth
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Cheers! To the history preserved, for days when memory may fail.
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Cheers! To the stories that would serve as a map for the journey towards a brighter future.
A guide from where we are, to where we ought to be.
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Cheers! To Us.

Much love,
Eden Benibo.

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My Lockdown Story – Conrad Opene

by Conrad Opene

A Lockdown Story

By: Conrad Opene

Hanging

Hanging from a pole while my eyes turn

The thought of falling seize my mind as I sway round and around

The sensation I offer makes me happy

My eyes begin to water mixing with sweats from my face

The strong ones never seem to be needy

Who gifts one what they possess

Who says one possesses

Sugar and Salt battle for dominance in a chilled glass of water

Nobody desires this conversation

Nobody talks when there’s nothing to say

Holding firm on the pole while stroking my body upwards and downwards

Smiling back at my enthusiastic spectators

They would keep me for ultimate pleasure

Until I am dropped after culmination

A Note From Eden: Dear Conrad,
I could end this note here already. Because the phrase “Dear Conrad” is in depths. The depths of the value you are to the world. The depths of how should let nothing tell you less. The depths of so many unwrapped gifts within you. The depths of the brilliance you should allow shine more. The depths of the brightness you carry. And the depths of how priceless you remain. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Simon Catherine Nkechi

by Catherine Nkechi Simon

A Lockdown Story

By: Simon Catherine Nkechi

Life presents us with a kind of fun that is not funny or aims to evoke laughter.

In between all, we are expected to devise a means to laugh. The past few months have been on funny life event that is not funny, but ironically, laughter is, and would always be the only way one can make sense out of certain terrible situations.

I have been able to discover me better, and also understand that my Creator works in tremendously wonderful ways that cannot be comprehended. Hence, this has been my means and source of laughter this period.

A Note From Eden: Dear Ketch, 

Just the first sentence of your lockdown story made me fall in love with the entire piece from the brilliance of your  mind.  Laughter has always been the best medicine, and we cannot  but use it has a remedy for this choking times we are in.  We stay happy, because without this,  life is empty.  Meanwhile, crying and worrying  leaves us empty in duality. So choosing joy and guarding our peace have always been the best options.  Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are. 

Cheers! 

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story: Ayodele Oluwafemi

by Ayodele Oluwafemi

My Lockdown Story

By: Ayodele Oluwafemi

Coronavirus: What A Virus!

During the COVID-19 lockdown, several thoughts invaded the space of my mind. At one point I was angered about the disruptions occasioned by the pandemic, and at another instance, I was relaxed to give way for certain thoughts, regarding the peculiarities of this pandemic.

When the virus started in December, 2019 at the Wuhan Province of China, many of us who got the news of a virus killing people in China, took it as an ordinary disease like Malaria or flu at the initial stage. We never envisioned the spread to over 200 countries. If a prophet had prophesied about what is happening in the world today with the COVID-19 issue, many would have called for his or her head or rather prefer to call such prophet a messanger of doom.

There is something special about this Coronavirus, it has no respect for age, sex, position, religion, educational background, social status and other demographic considerations. What a virus! It started like something that will not threaten the human race, but gradually it spread across continents taking away many lives at will, without recourse to any consideration.

This virus, unlike other virus-related diseases, does not have respect for your position or social status in the society. Those in the high, middle and low levels of the society have gotten their own fair share of the coronavirus. Top politicians like the likes of Boris Johnson of Great Britain, Canadian Prime Minster, Justin Trudean’s wife, Sophie Trudeau, Iranian vice president, Eshaq Jahangiri, Miami Mayor, Francis Suarez, Australian Home Affairs Minister, Peter Dutton and a host of others at one point tested positive for Coronavirus. Let me come back home, top Nigerian politicians also had their own fair share of the virus. Late Abba Kyari died as a result of coronavirus-related complications. Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state, Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and Governor Bala Muhammed of Bauchi state, Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Frank Okiye at one point tested positive, but recovered.

Coronavirus has shown us that it has no respect for the position you hold in the society. Even the great, US President, Donald Trump was scared about the idea of testing for COVID-19. At one point, he refused to test for it, but when he finally did, it came out negative. What a virus!

We have seen how sportsmen/sportswomen, celebrities, entertainers, media personalities and host of other professions were caught in the web of coronavirus. There was no route of escape, in terms of social status. We have even read or heard about the news on how members of the Almajiri group tested positive for the virus, in large numbers. What a virus!

If Coronavirus had spared on the basis of the religious beliefs and ideologies, at this moment, the battle of supremacy of one religion to another would have died a natural death. For instance, if the virus only affect christians, guess what other religion groups would have said. The deadly virus has no respect for religion. Christians, muslims, atheists, hindus, buddhists, agnostics to mention a few have contracted the virus, many members of the different religious groups have died in the hands of the virus. As we battle with the pandemic, religious places of worship have been deserted, some that have not witnessed lock down for ages are currently under locks.

Christians who derive solace in the Bible verse that says, “do not forsake the gathering of the brethren” are at homes reciting another verse that says, “when two or three are gathered in my name, I will be there with them.” Due to coronavirus lack of respect for religious beliefs, magnificent religious synagogues are under lock. Online

Image By: Ouinuchi Ejiohuo

worship has become a norm in the days of COVID-19. What a virus!

 

Few weeks ago, some International and Nigerian online news platforms wrote a news report with the headline “Pastor Who Defiled Lockdown Dies of Coronavirus.” That news report was a surprise to those who believed that Coronavirus is a respecter of religious position. We have seen how religious leaders from the different religious groups lost their lives in the hands of COVID-19. As I was reading through some of the tweets on Twitter, a Nigerian Twitter user tweeted, “Even babalawo (herbalist) sef dey use hand sanitizer, Oluwa (God), wetin dey happen.” As hilarious the statement appeared to be, the underlying meaning is very clear for those who care to understand. Irrespective of your level of relationship with God, (or gods, depending on your choice), if you refuse to take preventive measures, COVID-19 will surely be your undesirable guest.

In the eyes of Coronavirus, our age does really matter. The old, the middle-aged and the young have all gotten their own fair share of the virus. New born babies have been reported to have contracted Coronavirus. I think when this virus looks at us, it does not see our age, bank account, position in the society, religion, and tribe/culture, it sees humanity (blood).

Cases of how animals contracted coronavirus have also been reportedly by the mainstream media. Is that not a surprise to you? The virus is sparing nothing.

Coronavirus did not even spare the economy. Prices of goods/services skyrocketed, oil prices fell to an extent that oil sellers were begging buyers to buy. People lost their jobs and economic hardships took over. Developed countries were able to provide palliatives for their citizens, developing nations like Nigerians, poor and vulnerable people were left to fate, as some of the palliative shared could not get to the hands of many who really needed them.

Within few days, we could no longer engage in things that bind us together as human beings. Countries shut down their land, sea and air borders, stadia and recreational centres were closed, gatherings were restricted and the human world was appearing to be coming to end as the biblical forewarned. Animals were coming out of their natural homes to see what is going on in the human world. I guess some of them would have been wondering what is going on in the human world?

We lost out sanity to Coronavirus. Even as many countries are gradually easing the lockdown, the fear of COVID-19 is still hanging in the air. The ease of lockdown in many countries of the world came with heavy restrictions pertaining to physical distancing.

This pandemic is silently teaching us certain lessons. Another lesson is the displacement of traditional techniques for internet-enabled platforms. We can see how certain physical arrangement moved to the internet, during the lockdown. That is a lesson for the wise. COVID-19 is the silent teacher.

In my next edition of my lockdown story, I will be sharing with us, my thoughts on fake news and conspiracy theories. Untill then, stay safe, there is surely a post-covid era.

A Note From Eden: Dear Dele,

YOU ARE GOOD.  Oops! I forgot to add “too”. YOU ARE TOO GOOD. opening our eyes to not just look, but see many overlooked factors lingering in our lives as individuals and as citizens of the earth. You are brilliance personified. You’re intelligence,  encased in flesh and blood. And it’s beautiful to know that in all of this,  your heart remains a sky full of stars. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are. 

Cheers! 

Much love!!

 

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My Lockdown Story- Chinwe Wendy Okoro

by Chinwe Wendy Okoro

A Lockdown Story

By: Chinwe Wendy Okoro

My experience during the lockdown was filled with so many emotions.
When I first heard the announcement of the lockdown, I was so happy because finally I wasn’t going to be the only child in the house anymore. Still, I was a little sad in between, because my elder siblings weren’t going to be around, especially my elder sister whom I haven’t seen for the past four years. In all, I couldn’t be less grateful to God.

Being at home with my younger ones was fun and eventful. My mum and I had to go to the market to buy food stuffs for the house. This was to enable us have more than enough till the lockdown was over.

As time rolled by, the most challenging thing I have ever experienced happened!
I became ill to the extent that I thought I was going to sleep and never wake up. When the illness started, I kept postponing to go to the hospital because I thought I would get better. It wasn’t serious then, until I became so weak, even sleeping was a problem. Not even paracetamol cure the headache I felt.

Finally, I went to the hospital to run some tests and it came out as Malaria. Also, I had lost so much blood.
This led me to a phase where drugs became my best friend.

All I could do with the little strength remaining in me, was to pray silently for God’s healing. And He did!

However, things started to turn around gradually. What seemed like the worst phase of my life, not only led me back to health but also ushered my
family and I into a splendor of good news.
We got the best news during this period! My dad was given a post as the Chief Security Officer to the Imo State Governor. This led to so many joyful calls from both families and friends congratulating us. So much to be grateful to God for.

Regardless, with everything going on, I can’t wait to go out and feel free without being scared of any disease. I miss my friends and all the outings we always have. The burden of putting on a face mask. The fear of someone close contracting the disease and so much more.
I can’t wait for this nightmare to be over.

In all, I am thankful to God for the privilege of spending this trying period with my family. ❤❤❤

Cheers!

A Note From  Eden: Dear Chinwe,
Right now, if I was told to name a few heavenly things, I would mention the rainbow, the sun, and your heart. You’re a sky full of stars, and the goodness you carry is always made evident in your selfless nature. Being mindful of everything and everyone around you has always been of priority to you. I’m glad you were able to pull through during those moments that challenged your health. You are an essence. The kind quite hard to find in the world we live in today. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

 

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A Doctor’s Tale – Dr Oviawe Ezinne

by Ezinne Oviawe

Hmm, what can I say.
It started as a news heard only on International stations, until it breeched the borders and Nigeria had it’s first case. Trust us na.😉 At first, we made jokes and mockeries and told tales of how no black man could die of this pandemic.
3 months later, all schools closed. All my International and national exams cancelled. Markets shutdown.

And I am told to wear a face mask and treat all patients as COVID 19 patients until otherwise proven. The black man swallowed his tales as the death toll increased from 1 ,3,5 to a thousand plus.

I go to work and return thinking about the best way to stay safe for myself and my family. I watched as the prices of protective gears and hospital essentials( like gloves) sky rocket. And even basic commodities became either expensive or unavailable.

Hand sanitizers and soap.
I watch as my palms turn white in reaction to the countless number of times I am made to wash my hands. The fear, the panic and then the calm when u get home and hope to God that you avoided all possible means of infection.

A Note From Eden: Dear Dr Ezinne,
To be an ace doctor is one thing. But to combine this with being a wife, mother and everything beautiful you are, is awe-inspiring in totality. Your story is a masterpiece of truth and light. I’ll be wrong to call you strong. You are strength. You inspire even from afar, because the brilliance of your words leave its fragrance with everyone it comes in contact with. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

 

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My Lockdown Story -Umeh Chisom

by Chisom Umeh

A Knockdown Story

By: Umeh Chisom

Before, during and after the lockdown
I could never have asked for more.
A boring vacation.
Being home used to be my fairy tale story,
keeping record of every sanitized memory.

Before and during and the lockdown,
Writing became my melody to be heard.
Its lyrics, too tiny to see, too hard to understand.

Before and during the lockdown
my name became a song in everyone’s lips.
I’d dance to the tune of all
All first daughters would.

So here I am,
I became a dancer overnight…

A Note From Eden: Dear Chisom,
Your story sprinkled in poetry is deep. Each line leaving heavy footprints on my heart. The way you blend science with art is beautiful, and I look forward to the colours you’ll paint the world with this mixture. Thanks for sharing your truth with us. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Nifemi Arogundade

by Nifemi Arogundade

A Lockdown Story

By: Nifemi Arogundade

As a Creative (Writer), my imagination has always been my biggest ally and tool.

From crafting compositions in English class when I was younger, to writing on an even larger scale now. My Art is what I’ve always relied on.

The good thing about imagination as a tool is its exhaustibility and how easily it can be fueled.
Each day we went into the world and were inspired by what we saw and heard. Never did we think they would come a time where this wouldn’t be as easy as it has always been.

With the Corona Virus outbreak and everyone being stuck at home, the question was “How we can remain creative in such weird times?”
Speaking for myself, I’ve realized, just because you can’t go outside, doesn’t stop you from being inspired. This is where Books, Podcasts, Stories, Movies, and the likes come to play.

Remember reading your favorite childhood book for the first time, the feeling of fascination, creating those images in your mind. The places your imagination took you to. This is why most of us decided to write in the first place. Wasn’t it Toni Morrison who said: “I wrote my first novel because I wanted to read it”?

With time on our hands and not being able to go anywhere, I let my imagination take me there, let it help me recall why I fell in love with, or decided to make art in the first place.
I was reading a book called Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng the other day, and it hit me, Yes, this why I do what I do.
So yes, while I can’t wait for all this to be over and for us to return to normal or the new normal as it were, I am grateful for this time, for the sober reflections, fresh inspiration, all helping me return to the basics.

 

A Note From Eden: Dear Nifemi,
I see you, I see beauty inside out. I see you, I see brilliance at its peak, and all these are perfect reflections of your lockdown story as a Creative. You. Are. An Essence of Art. Thank you for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!
Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Okorie Ibegbulam

by Okorie Ibegbulam

A Lockdown Story

By: Okorie Ibegbulam

Since I was born I have never seen a disease that has put the entire world at a “stand still mode” before.
As deadly as a virus can be, the novel Coronavirus has brought untold hardships to many around the world and still continues to cause havoc without control.
The global pandemic which came like a fire outbreak has claimed numerous lives and still counting.

It’s so sad that whilst trying to battle with the deadly virus, some people still struggle with other battles from various brutalities to alleged shootings and thefts all over the news.

The Lockdown and hunger indeed walked hand in hand, and we can only but desperately pray this siege is over already.

This phase has exposed the loopholes we’ve carried along all these years especially in our health sectors.

Finally, these phase only shows us our vulnerability as humans, regardless of our status in the society. COVID-19 has no respect for race, economic or political status and all what have been the drive over the years. There is no better time than now, to draw closer to God more than ever before.

A Note From Eden: Dear Okorie I.
I’ve always known you as that resilient ‘one man’ army who may like to keep to himself most times, but is never oblivious of the happenings around him. You are one of the most selfless persons I know, and this is written all over the story you just shared with us. The summary of your story goes beyond your personal challenges to the various plights others have been facing, lately. Thank you for the further insights revealed via your story. Thank you for being a voice. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story- Comfy Ileke

by Comfy Ileke

A Lockdown Story

By: Comfy Ileke

One of the most answered questions on AskReddit this week (as at 4/5) is “What positive effects has the lockdown had on you?”

Some answers were positive, while others, negative.
An example: Someone found that as a result of his flatmates working from home, he’s able to interact with more than 2 people per day – the person at the beginning of the shift he’s taking over from and the person at the end of his shift. In comparison, another thought being stuck at home was negative, because they couldn’t interact with others as they live alone.

Some people have found themselves picking up healthier lifestyles, quitting smoking, drinking less whilst others found their lifestyle filled with eating more and drinking more.

So I thought to myself, this is a good way to answer answer Eden’s question.

The lockdown got me spending quality time with my husband – we’ve cycled together, jogged together, taken lots and lots of walks. This is in addition to the usual watching of Netflix, Amazon Prime and IrokoTV. I have also found myself learning to cook new dishes and to bake more.

Regardless, I struggled mentally – not having anyone to talk to for most of the day (apart from the usual work meetings) when hubby went back to work. Though I am fortunate to be able to work from home, I really struggled to get myself into work mode or to get anything done. I will admit I had days where I wasn’t able to complete a simple task and others where I was able to do soo much!

Overall, this season has been a blend of highs and lows. One that I feel confident by the end you will see a better me, brighter me and happier me. ☺️

 

A Note From Eden: Dear Comfort,
Your story is a beautiful answer to the ‘big question’ question life has thrown at us in this phase. In its length and breadth you have given insights of how little things matter. Like shared moments and crossroads. You command so much energy of positivity and glee, and this runs through your story, shinning its light through the dark. Leaving us with the warmth of hope you carry. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

 

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A Doctor’s Tale – Onyinye Mbata

by Onyinye Mbata

By: Dr Onyinye Mbata

Some days, I wish I had a stay at home order. I wish I too could
just stay home, wake up late, eat, watch movies, stay in my pyjamas
all day and then have my bath at night.
I wish I could take a break from the scared sickly faces staring at me
and wondering if I could do anything to save their lives.
I wish I could hide from all the family members helplessly standing outside
the hospital asking to see their loved ones before they pass on.
I wish I could go to work not worrying about getting infected with a
disease so contagious and deadly.
I wish I could look at my colleagues and not wonder which one of us
would be infected next or die next.
I wish I didn’t have to go to work in fear and return home in fear that
I probably might infect my loved ones.
I wish I could trust the government to provide me with the adequate
materials I need to work.
I wish I too could stay home with my loved ones, share unforgettable
moments with them and not relive the horror that I witness constantly.
I never imagined that in my generation, there would be a pandemic so
lethal I would have so many wishes.
But I chose this path and as a doctor I must serve others even at my
expense.

A Note From  Eden: Dear Dr. Onyinye,

You. Are. Everything. Beautiful.
You are an essence of strength and light. And your story is one that ushers us into a soulful moment of retrospection. Of what life was. What life has been and what life is, currently.
In depths, beyond what our lockdown experiences look like, your story gives us a perfect picture of life “behind the scene”. About hope. About the pains. About death. About life. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Uwemishie Emmanuel

by Emmanuel Uwemishie

A Lockdown Story

By: Uwemishie Emmanuel

I am a batch B2 Corp member serving in Kwara state, Irepodun local government.

When I heard about COVID-19 and the ‘stay at home’ news, I was a bit scared because at a point it seemed like I had contracted the virus already. My body was playing tricks on me indeed, with so many thoughts on the different symptoms as I was even coughing at the same time. In the area where I stay, anyone that had cough was immediately suspected to be a carrier of the virus. So you can just imagine the frustration at first.

The frustration was accompanied by boredom, when most of my friends went home. It moved from a one week routine of chatting sleeping and eating till it became a general routine. To me, this wasn’t different from ‘Animal life’ -just to eat and sleep.

In between, I saw it as a moment to be closer to God, because I had more time to pray and study the word for days.

The first Sunday of the Lockdown was a different ‘Sunday’ because for more than 3 years, I hadn’t been at home on a Sunday without going to church. Everything felt so unusual .

By the second week of the Lockdown I noticed I had lost count of the days of the week. I couldn’t really tell the difference anymore, because I kept doing the same routine.

Well, the days were enjoyable in a way. Where I stay in Omu Ara, Kwara state has one of the best power supply. Up to 21-23hrs light per day. Those who have been to this area before, will understand better.

With all these and many other personal engagements, things began to stabilize for me, and my Lockdown wasn’t so boring, after all.

A Note From Eden: Dear Emmanuel,

Your story is one that touches almost every aspect of various individual experiences during lockdown. Your resilience is one that could be felt in every paragraph. I’m glad you were able to pull through, balancing a lot in the end. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story- Achuzia Joseph

by Joseph Achuzia

A Lockdown Story

By: Achuzia Joseph

Initially, I thought it was a scam when I heard the news that Nigeria had recorded the first COVID-19 patient. The first thing I said was “government don dey scam us again make they for chop our money” and I was also happy when the government first shut down schools and public gathering because I was already tired of teaching wahala.
Little did I know that the virus spreads faster than wildfire in harmattan, and my happiness gradually turned into sadness in no time.
Staying at home for over 4 weeks without going out to have fun or visit friends is something I never imagined, I now prefer my teaching job wahala to this new anthem COVID-19 has brought – “stay at home” “stay safe”. I really miss life before this pandemic.
My everyday life became like a recorded tape on loop, until one day I decided to learn something new.
I told my dad I wanted to learn how to drive a car, he agreed and was happy to teach me. In just a week of learning how to drive a car, I was already showing off on my street with my dad’s car. I’m happy I now know how to drive and I can’t wait for this pandemic to be over, so I can go visit my friends and show off my driving skills.

And that’s how I added driving to my looped life during this Corona virus phase. Not a totally bad phase after all.

A Note From Eden: Dear Joseph,
The prelude of your story is a perfect display of the thoughts that lingered in the hearts of many, at the initial stage of the pandemic. Your story is simply a display of your truth and openness. (inside out)
In all, I am glad you were able to pick the stars within the dark clouds, and that’s what matters. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Tamara Adetoyin Aremu

by Tamara Adetoyin Aremu

A Lockdown Story

By: Tamara

Hey, this past few unplanned weeks have been a spontaneous learning phase for Tee.. Initially, I thought this whole thing wouldn’t last or get to this extent, but we are where we are now and we just hope and pray God intervenes…

Lately, I have been learning to bake and cook variety of dishes. Also, online courses have been my invisible isolation centre.

In summary, I have been learning, relearning and unlearning.
No doubt I got to the stage where I became tired, bored and pissed at some point, but you know the popular gist that an idle mind is the devil’s tool of destruction, everything pushed me to do more, and be more.

I have been growing bit by bit,at my own pace in various field of expertise.
I hope you have been evolving too??

Stay Safe. Informed and Productive.
Tee.

A Note From Eden: Dear Tamara,
Always, I am in awe of your dexterity in making marbles from difficult situations. Your ace in not just finding the light at the end of the tunnel, but also becoming that light is awe-inspiring.
Time and again, you rise and pull through. Each challenge leaves you better than it met you, rather than the reverse. You are the beauty of strength. A perfect reflection of the rainbow after the storms. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story- Goodnews Udodi levi

by Goodnews Udodi Levi

A Lockdown Story

By: Goodnews Udodi levi

As a student of Banking and Finance at Imo state University, I have always loved and had a passion for interior decoration. This passion led me to learning the skills, even while in school.
Although I started practicing from October last year, but ever since then I haven’t been able to fully go to work because of the busy and demanding schedule of my course.

With this, I had to shift my work days to only Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

However, on the reversal, the lockdown has ushered me into the best and most convenient time for me to harness my skills more than ever before.

Currently, I have been working heavily to the extent that my whole day is always occupied, because of my works, which have been loved by majority.

I will conclude by saying that, the lockdown has been the ‘Best of Time’ for me, it has no doubt widened my knowledge in the business of interior decorations.

Goodnews Udodi levi (CEO VALID DECORS)

A Note From Eden: Dear Udodi,
Your aura of perseverance is topnotch, and this has been made evident in the productivity you command. No doubt passion gives wings to fly, and I see you soaring in your chosen field, sooner than your expectations. Success all way! The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!

Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Enoma Christabel

by Christabel Enoma

A Lockdown Story

By: Enoma Christabel

At first, adjusting to this lockdown wasn’t so easy for me. Prior to this time, my everyday life has always been so busy! busy!! busy!!

Having to suddenly pause a lot and face the new phase of life was definitely a drastic change.

Regardless of all, I decided to look on the bright side of everything.
I saw it as a means to improve on myself in all areas.
Unlike before, I started to work out, I also took tons of online classes and workshops to improve on my business, and it’s been fun all the way!

I am grateful for the “break”, not because I am happy there is a pandemic, but because of all I have been able to achieve during this period.

Stay Safe
Spread Love

A Note From Eden: Dear Christabel,
Just in case I have never told you before – You have a BEAUTIFUL heart, and you emit this beauty in all you do.
I’m so glad you too out time to breathe during the lockdown. I’m so glad you were able to see through the bright side, whilst the current darkness the world is faced with. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express- Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!
Much love

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My Lockdown Story- Dayo Oyelola

by Dayo Oyelola

A Lockdown Story

By: Dayo Oyelola

Well, I will call mine “My Lock Up Story” or what more can best describe the situation you are told where to go and when to go, what to eat and even how to eat it.

You’re placed on a compulsory diet because you don’t know how long your “sentence” is.
I even bought some books to keep me company. I also created a schedule on what to do per time, but all that didn’t last a week.

The news became a dreadful thing to watch. Every normal thing became sacred to the extent of even “ordinary” greeting.

In all, there is only one thing I look forward to every day, and that is just to breathe again.

A Note From Eden: Dear Dayo,
Your story is a masterpiece of truth and light, piercing through the current darkness in the world today.
Calling it a masterpiece is no hype, because what else can we call a story that is able to trigger series of emotions in one swift. From the laughter it evoked, to it’s relatability. Your story is one that leaves the one in solemnity in the end. Thank you for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!
Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Olive Okakpu

by Olive Okakpu

The lockdown which begun on 31st March, 2020 made up so many memories that life stick for a lifetime. My experience during this Lockdown can best be described in three words: Sad. Miraculous. Awesome.

Before the lockdown, everything seemed to be going smoothly. My dad was strong, there was food in the house, my sister was always away at work, my two younger siblings were in the university and I was alone at home, feeling bored, but happy because we were all fine.

After the announcement of the lockdown, the house was full again. My dad had rush to the market to help us get some stuffs. Everything was still fine and we were all happy, although wondering how people would survive the lockdown.

Suddenly, two days after the lockdown on the 2nd of April, which was a Thursday, by 2am!!! My dad fell ill. It would have been worse, but for the mercies of God. I couldn’t have been less grateful. He suddenly couldn’t walk on his own, or even talk clearly. We all woke up to pray for him. I became so overwhelmed, in fact, I could feel my heart sinking. I cried bitterly. I couldn’t even sing praises or pray properly anymore.

The next morning, we went to the hospital through the help of a pastor, because there was no means of transportation (as we all know).
The doctor said my father’s blood pressure was so high, and bla bla bla, but we believed God’s report.
And as always, God didn’t disappoint us! Yep!! This is where the miracle came in. God showed up, he worked on my dad like a physiotherapist and within two weeks, my dad could walk without any assistance. His words became clearer, and he could move his right hand again.

God didn’t only do this, He used this medium to bless us financially. Our house rent was miraculously paid. There was more than enough food stuffs to the extent, we had so much to eat and give out. God fulfilled his words which says in Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him”(NIV).

Lastly, the lockdown was awesome because it was a sort of reunion as I spent the weeks with my sisters and baked my first cake during this period. Boredom became history as we shared so many moments where we talked , laughed and just had fun in our own way. I am already missing my siblings in advance!
Also, the online services usually held at home were awesome! It always felt like little Canaanland to me, that is, my church winners chapel.

In conclusion, I would say everything went well to the glory of God. We have no reason to be sad anymore because my dad is in perfect condition. God provided GREATLY, though I am already missing my siblings in advance.

No doubt, the Lockdown came in a time that badly shook my family at first. And it also delayed certain personal goals. I was supposed to have been done with my clearance in school (UNIBEN), and also started my Youth Service.
But in all, I have no regret, because God’s plan will always come through in the end. And as I said before, “All things work for the good of those who love God”.

A Note From  Eden: Dear Olive,
Effortlessly, you inspire by simply being you, always. You are an essence of beauty, and strength in duality. Your depths of brilliance knows no bound. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!
Much love!!

 

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My Lockdown Story – Tanith Harding

by Tanith Harding

Time for Change

A Lockdown Story

By: Tanith Harding 

Covid-19, Coronavirus, Global Pandemic, words that are creating fear and stress in the world right now with propaganda in the press. Stay home, save lives. For me and many others it is a moment that we know we needed. The Earth was talking and we refused to listen and now as we all sit in time out to think about what we have been doing, of how we have been living, it is a moment for clarity and a time to create long lasting change in a world that had become too fast paced and unsustainable. A time to take stock of what is important in life instead of feeding the world economic growth machine. It is such a time of transformation with the whole human race having time to stand still and breathe and think about what life really is about.

Eden, Tanith and the flashing lights

I have loved my daily walks in nature with family, talking about our philosophies, about ethics and morals and planning on how we can be the change in the world. I have loved laughing with my loved ones, playing games, gardening and cooking. I have had more time to meditate, to read, to imagine and to innovate. I’ve even picked up my ukulele again. Our business has been re-imagined and we have enjoyed changing the way in which we can deliver our global programmes. I am watching communities become just that, instead of strangers in brick houses that only share a cursory nod from time to time. Please let’s not go ‘back to normal’ as we now know how damaging this was to us all. Let’s use this time to re-imagine the world we want to live in, one that focuses on the health of our people and our planet and not on making the richest people in the world even richer. Let’s go forward, not backwards, and create a world that is full of love and kindness. Focusing on health, happiness and healing. We are one global race living on a planet that is beautiful and we should take better care of it and one another.

A Note From Eden: Dear Tanith,
In you, I have grown to see a masterpiece of truth, light and strength. Always, I am in awe of the beauty your heart displays. It’s rare to find someone who understands we live in a world where our differences are simply the bond of our togetherness. Your concept of one global race is timeless. Beyond time and distance, I’ve felt your impact, as you tirelessly drive the world towards healing, health and wholeness. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!
Much love!!

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My Lockdown Story – Miracle Ikegbula

by Miracle Ikegbula

A Lockdown Story

By: Miracle Ikegbula

One thing has remained a guide for me all through this trying times. Staying safe and positive.
Life has a way of kicking us when we’re down, and just when we think we can’t fall any lower, we get kicked again.

In all, it’s high time we realized that setbacks, failures and horrible tragedies, are still part of life.
Just like there is day and night. Life comes with its seasons. We shouldn’t give up quickly despite the fact that we are going through a rough & difficult time.

Instead, it’s best to focus our attention on the things left. Family times. The laughter shared. The peace within. And every other little thing that matters.

Always, we have to consciously find something to lift our spirit, rather than wallow in fear, anxiety or sadness.
Let’s always remember that just like there is day and night, the sun and the moon, the morning will always come.

This has been the summary of my lockdown story. Not just staying safe but staying positive. Not just staying at home, but staying happy, trying my best to look at the bright side of life, whilst the darkness.

Soon, the flood will be over.
The sun will shine again.

A Note From Eden: Dear Miracle,
You are a perfect reflection of the name you bear. You are golden. You are light. You are strength. You are wisdom. And you are everything beautiful. Thanks for sharing your truth with us at Express-Shun. The world is dark enough. Continue to shine the light that you are.

Cheers!
Much love!!

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