by Taylor Isenberg
Associate Editor
I’m going to be honest. It’s really difficult sitting here trying to write a positive piece on the COVID-19 pandemic when cases are skyrocketing, none of us have really seen our friends, significant others, co-workers, and it’s gloomy outside. We’re instructed by the government to stay home and to only leave for essentials. Many have been laid off and now are applying for unemployment.
We aren’t going to war and no one is getting drafted into the military, but it really feels like our country is being invaded. Everyone feels pretty trapped and cooped up, and with nothing getting better, it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, especially when we don’t even know how this will turn out.
But, some positives do exist during this pandemic. First, our society is taking a much-needed break. Before this, I was a full-time student, an intern, and I had a part-time job. I barely had time for anything, and often felt really burned out.
As Americans, we sometimes prioritize work over mental health, relaxation, and time with our family and friends. If you’ve been active in the past week outside, the trails are packed. Families are out spending time together, eating dinner with each other, and playing games or doing puzzles at night to pass the time. Before this, some families probably rarely saw each other.
Second, our earth is healing. From decades of pollution and human impact, those in China are finally seeing clean air. Dolphins are making their way back to the canals in Venice, which is usually filthy. This pandemic is giving us a second chance to take care of our climate change issue, giving us more time on this planet.
Lastly, we’re learning what really means the most to us. COVID-19 is teaching us what is really important in life. Taking time to unwind, protecting and healing our planet, and prioritizing family. Yes, this sucks. Our lives have been disrupted, but this is only temporary. It won’t feel like this forever, and it won’t be like this for the rest of our lives. Events like this only make us and our community stronger than ever.
When the pandemic comes to a halt, we’ll walk out of our houses, see friends and things will return to normal. Our old normal will become our new normal once again.
Hang in there; you aren’t alone.
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