I don’t think I’ve ever let someone else write my essay. But this little piece from the WSJ on how to be a good hostage seemed a fitting first, so I’ll only add a bit of commentary. As have many others, Mr. van Dyk survived his ordeal in captivity, in part because of the Stockholm Syndrome. This coping strategy that has comforted many a victim of kidnapping or abuse seems counterintuitive; How can befriending your captor make a bad situation tolerable, or even better? A paradox perhaps, but documented cases from nearly fifty years cannot be denied. Abject fear of being held hostage by someone or something may at first be paralyzing. Once the reality that you’re going to be trapped for a while settles in, making friends with your captor might be a good idea. Maybe even a lifesaver. Even if the enemy is invisible.
We can’t see the pandemic-causing virus but we certainly see its effects. And it’s sobering. We’re holed up at home- isolated and adrift. I commend van Dyk’s suggestions. Routines. Restraint. Reading and writing. Productively using found time to do something worthwhile that you’ve been talked about doing for so long that even you don’t believe you ever will. Practice French, master the simplest Bach minuets, clean up the inbox. Surprise yourself.
Fraternizing with the enemy is generally frowned upon because it gives them an advantage. But when cozying up to our captor gives us the advantage, isn’t it worth a try? Closer and stronger, quietly proud and more grateful are four good reasons. Toss in learning some French and Bach, and you’re up to six!
“Do or don’t do, there is no try.” Yoda