We’re living through strange times. So strange that it’s actually possible to take comfort from these calming words spoken by a fictional, extraterrestrial Time Lord.
Mega-popular sci-fi character the Doctor from BBC series ‘Doctor Who’, currently played by Jodie Whittaker, has taken to the internet to share a message for Earth in this trying moment for humankind.
Sending out an emergency transmission as a reaction to ‘someone, somewhere being a little bit worried’, the Doctor (who happens to be self-isolating inside the Tardis) shared some tips for staying calm in stressful circumstances.
Incoming transmission. #MessageFromTheDoctor #DoctorWho pic.twitter.com/WRTROxWRQy
— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) March 25, 2020
‘Now, here’s what I do in any worrying situation,’ says Whittaker. ‘One: remember, you will get through this. Things will be alright, even if they look uncertain, even if you’re worried. Darkness never prevails.
‘Two: tell jokes. Even bad ones. Especially bad ones. I’m brilliant at bad ones.
‘Three: Be kind. Even kinder than you were yesterday, and I know you were super-kind yesterday. Look out for each other. You won’t be the only one worried. Talking will help. Sharing will help. Look out for your friends, your neighbours, people you hardly know, and family – because in the end, we’re all family.
‘Four: listen to science, and listen to doctors. They’ve got your back.
‘Five: Stay strong, stay positive. You've got this.’
Just what you needed to hear, right?
Play it to your kids, and listen to it yourself on repeat until you feel capable of taking on the world – and an army of Daleks or two.
Need a little distracting?