Living in the Pandemic

 

     The COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread illness and death, as well as an economic ruin, daily struggles, and long-term uncertainty. As the pandemic continues to wreak havoc on communities around the world, health care professionals are overworked, leaders are balancing decisions about reopening schools and businesses while avoiding further spread, and countries, states, and towns have launched enormous vaccination efforts. Last year, when the lockdown started, I was ecstatic because my final year in school (Grade 11) had finished early and our final exams had been also finished. The sun is shining, I am happy and glad. After all, I asked myself that how hard could staying at home possibly be. After a while, the reality of the situation began to sink in. I began to struggle as the thrill of being at home wore off. I had panic episodes on a daily basis, freezing on the floor of my room, unable to move or speak. I struggled to sleep most nights because I had nightmares. It seemed like I was trapped, both in my house and in my own mind. I didn't know how to deal with it. However, over time, I was able to cope with the pressure. I discovered that the pandemic provided me more time to pursue my hobbies, which had before been suffocated by school works. That’s where I started drawing, dancing, writing again and felt free for the first time in months. I had forgotten how it felt to be creative. Plus, I get to spend time more with my family and helping them with their house chores like washing the dishes and cleaning the house. Before the pandemic strikes, we don’t have time to bond together because of their works and my busyness in school but with the help of the lockdown, we got the opportunity to bond with each other. A few months later, I feel so much better and still feeling great. After 2020 and lockdown has come to an end, I and my family spend time going outside like having a picnic, going to the beach/resort, and eating at restaurants. In conclusion, I understand how terrible this must be, but it’s important to remember that none of us are alone. In conclusion, no matter how scared or alone you feel. Take some time to reminisce about the things you enjoy, and keep in mind that all of this will pass. There are so many things you can do during this pandemic to entertain yourself and relieve your stress like going outside, have a walk with your friends or yourself, and don’t forget to wear a face mask and face shield. If you don’t want to go outside, then be creative like go have an exercise, read some books, draw something, watch television or play video games.