Out with the old and in with the new

2021 is a year where Creative Nation has decided to adapt the concept of rebirth. A new beginning for all, amid the scary times of the Coronavirus. Covid-19 has taken the world by storm and has changed so many lives in negative ways. Many have been affected by job losses, the lose of loved ones and major mental health struggles. Scientists have acknowledged the impact confined spaces and restricted schedules have done to the mental health of certain individuals.

South Africa has adapted new social norms that come with each level of lockdown that is set in place to control the spread of the virus. We think it helps to talk about the general social norms and cultural experiences that South Africans have been accustomed to for years before the virus hit.

South Africa, as we all know is famously known as the rainbow nation as it is made up of many diverse cultures and religions. Over the years South Africans have fully embraced the spirit of Ubuntu, the togetherness of people within a society, allowing us to open our eyes to humanity and being able to share ourselves with others.

I think we are most happy when we have the opportunity to share experiences with one another and being able to embrace everyone’s cultures and norms. Parties, festivals, clubbing, markets, shows, religious gatherings and even international events have had a way of getting people out of the house and fully embracing not just one another but nature as well.

Opportunities and experiences

Such as these were fully taken for granted and we never knew what we had until it was ripped away from us. It is extremely sad and a difficult concept to fully discuss but also a lifestyle change that is very necessary, as staying home and isolated is the only way we can manage to survive this crazy time. Many have struggled to get into the swing of things as physical human contact is pretty much a lifeline for most.

In 2020 we pretty much became accustomed to virtual birthday parties, meetings, and a life without alcohol. To say that we had it tough is an understatement, but with these changes, new social norms were developed, and individuals really had the time to do some introspection and work on themselves and formulate a clearer future for their prospective lives.

There are many ways that people can influence our behaviour and our lives but having been separated, we have become our own authors of our behavioural patterns and the roles that we choose to play within a society. 2021 has become the year that we embody the new paths that we have chosen to walk on.

Its about a rebirth.

Having the exact same body but becoming a whole new person. And being this person navigating through the hardships that we are still facing due to the coronavirus has made us stronger as people and as a country. We should continue to be a nation that celebrates and uplifts one another and yet, look after each other as best we can. And that is what the world is becoming, a world of looking after the person next to you by being the best you can be.

Creative Nation Magazine is a digital publication that celebrates and showcases the diverse creative talent of our nation. Our magazine provides a platform for artists, writers, photographers, and musicians to share their work with a wider audience.