I have never owned a house, and I always bought my cars second-hand. But I am very aware that a lot of good things have happened to me in my life so far. I consider myself lucky because I was born and raised in Switzerland, a stable and beautiful country. And later in life, I had the opportunity to immigrate to Canada, a dream country for many.
I have been able to realize many goals that were important to me: I went to university, I worked as a journalist in Zurich, Switzerland, I founded a tiny company (Calonego Media Inc.), I became a foreign correspondent for European newspapers, first in Switzerland, then in Canada. I succeeded as a book author and was able to emigrate from Switzerland to Canada all by myself. I was able to build long lasting friendships, I am the sister to three awesome brothers, and I have found a loving partner. I`ve always had enough food, I never had to experience war, no violence. Most of the time, I felt free and independent. Even now, during the Covid-19 crisis, I feel – compared to many, many people – privileged.
I think I`m in good hands in Canada during Covid-19. The Canadian government is rational and emphatic, the free national health care is a true blessing. The Canadians act in a civilized manner and follow the rules of social distancing with dignity. I am able to go for walks in peaceful surroundings and enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific coast in British Columbia. At home, I have been busy preparing the publication of “Eisiger Kerker”, my latest German crime novel that is set in icy Labrador. The book launch is on April 27th. I feel the excitement and joy about another accomplishment, a book that hopefully will be read by thousands of mystery fans.
But every day, I am thinking of the many people for whom dark times have arrived. They suffer, they are scared, they worry about the lack of money, they are losing their jobs, they fear what the future (doesn`t) hold for them. My heart goes out to the people who fall ill and who face death. So much suffering and fear in this world. I would like to take them in my arms and promise them that one day, everything will be alright. But this is an illusion of course. The only thing I can do is to think of them with compassion and, whenever possible, offer help.
