16 things the pandemic has taught Echo readers - one year on from Lockdown 1

These are just some of the valuable lessons Sunderland Echo readers say they have learnt during the coronavirus pandemic to date.

As we mark one year since the first national lockdown was announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson – on March 23, 2020 – we have been reflecting on an unpredictable and difficult 12 months.

Hundreds of Echo readers answered our call to share the life-changing and important things they have taken on board during this time.

From appreciating what you have to saying yes to plans in safer times, the past year has really made all of us think.

This is what you had to say on our Facebook page:

Andrea Mulligan: “I don’t need to be driving 1,000 miles a week and working 70 hours to be productive. I can do the same in the comfort of my home working sensible hours; reducing my carbon footprint; having a better work/life balance.”

Hilda Jamieson: “Be grateful for what we have because all can change in a blink of an eye.”

Shaun McGlynn: “Take the time and make the effort to see family and friends it's much more important than material things. Just be kind to people it costs nothing and is as important as anything else in life.”

Allison Dixley: “Some of the lowest paid ‘unskilled’ workers are the most valuable.”

Anna Maven: “Enjoy what's on your doorstep.”

Hayley Richardson: “Life’s too short! Hoping this whole thing makes people more loving towards each other.”

Diane Gow Gemmel: “Not to take having family members for granted. We always think they will always be here until they are not.”

Philip Scott: “To appreciate what we have. Don’t take things for granted and have respect for each other.”

Paul Tasker: “Appreciate what you have. How much variety you have in life. Travel, cinema, different walks. Especially visiting friends and family. When you lose this freedom you realise how good you had it.”

Marc Stephenson: “Life is too short. Surround yourself with people who care about you. Keep yourself in check and forget what others think.”

Lexi Atherton: “The best things in life are free, money and possessions etc will never give you the happiness you have when spending time with your family and friends. I miss hugs and just enjoying my loved ones’ company.”

Danielle Quinn: “I learnt how to relax and appreciate the peace and quiet that Lockdown 1 brought.”

Harriet Bunker: “To love unconditionally. Family is the most important thing ever.”

Tony Allen: “I learned to relax a lot, after working full on for 40 years this last 12 months has given me time among the madness of everything to chill a little.

"I think for me things have changed forever in a really positive way, accepting and understanding that others in the same time and town have gone to hell and back.”

Lucy Ruddock: “To never turn down another social event ever again.”

Marion Jolliff: “I learnt how to be strong. Don't take chances, because coronavirus could be anywhere. Stay safe.”

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