To know how to win

In play and work, it is considered a good trait to know how to lose. To take defeat with dignity, learn from the experience and use it for good. Likewise, it is important to know how to win. Show humility when things go well, show respect for the circumstances and be careful not to underestimate the challenges at hand.

Although it is still premature to declare victory in the fight against Covid-19, Icelanders can be pleased with good progress. The situation is good, the vast majority of adults have been vaccinated, and domestic restrictions have been lifted. This fact lifts the spirits, contributes to economic growth, and frees various activities from the chains of the coronavirus. Thus, it is immensely fun to see cultural activities get up to full speed, see concerts thrive, and the conditions for theatre operations transform for the better. Gatherings are now permitted, whether people want to attend the music house Harpa, the community centre in Akureyri, or town festivals across the country. Large and small theatres look forward to the autumn with optimism, and culture-thirsty citizens can finally quench their thirst, while artists can once again earn full income after a long wait. The tourism industry has picked up, and most prospects are looking better.

In these circumstances, it is appropriate to recall the philosophy about pride and the fall. How arrogance can turn a good situation into a bad one, and what we can contribute to maintain success in the Covid battle. We need to know how to win, show respect for the circumstances, and not lose our position. Jokers talked about 'inebriation duty' as a natural continuation of the 'mask duty', and if the news about nightlife in the last few days is anything to go by, it seems some have taken it to heart. Hopefully, it will soon wear off the most party-loving people, as the battle against Covid-19 is not over. We need to continue to show responsibility, and in the meantime assess what we can learn from the experience of the past 16 months, so that individuals, companies and authorities can respond appropriately.

Authorities also need to assess whether the achievements of their support for the business sector and social organisations were sufficient, and whether public funds have been used as they should have been. This discussion is to take place. We have all lived through historic times together. It is clear that it puts a strain on our society going forward, but we have every ability to emerge stronger from this challenge.

The outlook is good, and the summer holiday season has arrived. The bright summer night is symbolic of good progress, which we must preserve together.

Lilja Dögg Alfreðsdóttir, vice-chair of Framsókn and Minister of Education and Culture.

The article first appeared in Morgunblaðið on 7 July 2021.