After 67 days of lockdown, the author is finally allowed to leave their residential compound for three hours. Feeling unfamiliar with the outside world, they liken themselves to a caged bird finally free to fly in its usual habitat.
The streets are busy, with limited shops open, including convenience stores and supermarkets. Long queues can take up half the allocated time for each visit. Outside one store, the lines extend for blocks.
Another store only serves specific communities, causing conflicts between residents and health personnel. With limited opportunities to buy groceries, tempers flare.
The writer goes to another crowded supermarket but quickly leaves due to the overwhelming crowd. Finally, they find a fresh produce store with fewer people and buy groceries.
Despite finally getting out, the author feels the lack of vibrant life; it's just about survival. They describe the world as lifeless, devoid of living spirit, and soon return to their "cage."