Monthly Meeting - 'Silver Linings'
TUESDAY APRIL 14 2020 - SILVER LININGS
Normally on this evening we would be walking into Ruskie Hall, warming up by the fire; but instead we were logging on to the virtual meeting room from our own homes. We were delighted that 28 members and friends joined us for the first “formal” Ruskie meeting using Zoom – too many smiley faces to show on one screen! The meeting was kicked off as usual with our School bell and Anne Artis summary of the Rural business – a treasurers report (nothing to report!) and a list of postponements of federation and other events, however these will be rescheduled and give us something to look forward to when lockdown is over. We also discussed the process of a virtual AGM, and how to make sure we fulfil the OSCR requirements – we will use online voting (paper forms are also available to members who prefer that format) and the balance sheet will be circulated in advance and presented in the May meeting. We were encouraged to submit 3 suggestions for next years syllabus, when things will hopefully be “back to normal”, but also reminded that if this situation continues longer than we anticipate we need to be mindful of how to include those who may still be vulnerable and isolating in September.
Instead of a speaker we each took the opportunity to share our “silver linings” from the lockdown – without a doubt we will have the cleanest houses, tidiest drawers and most blooming gardens as a result of this (even growing plants from seed!). Our “to-do” lists are shrinking, but waistlines are expanding as we are baking (and eating) more than before but taking the chance to relax, walk in the local area and speak to people (at a distance) that we have never had time to before. The new technology allows us to re-engage with old friends (ask Mary Muirhead about the “Jordanhill Babes”) and connect with families more than before (Isobel McGuires night-time stories now reach all her grandchildren!) … but we really need to work out how to video Sheenagh Beaton dancing down the deserted streets to post a letter! What a great way to spend an evening!
