Gracey. From Chicago.
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I am a junior in high school. Normally around this time I would be studying for SATs and ACTs and college searching. Since I am an IB student, this whole year I have been stressing about school work, my future and still being able to do extra curricular activities like being on the swim team and playing water polo.
This pandemic has really opened up a new perspective on life for me. None of the stuff I was stressing about is a priority anymore. Instead of focusing on the future of my academic life, I am focusing on health of my family. Having an autistic brother with epilepsy, who is a very high risk, and a father who is still working and coming into contact with people everyday makes it very scary. Being quarantined in my house makes me more appreciative about the little things that would happen on a daily basis. For example, hugging my grandma, talking with my teachers at school and hanging out with my friends and boyfriend. Before I was able to do all that stuff without a care in the world, but now I am constantly reminded about how I cannot socialize with people without jeopardizing their health or the health of my family and loved ones.
With the all the technology in the world, it is easy to communicate with teachers through e-learning and using FaceTime to talk to family and friends when I miss them. It still is not the same. Even though it is upsetting hearing the daily news about how this pandemic is negatively affecting the world, I'm glad that it has changed my outlook on life. It makes me realize that it is important not to take any moment for granted because you don't know what the outcome of the future will be.
WHAT IS YOUR INSPIRATION TO KEEP GOING?
My inspiration is my friends, family and loved ones. I want them and their families to stay healthy during this pandemic.
WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR AT THE MOMENT?
I am grateful that everyone I care about is healthy, and even though things are tough, I am still able to stay in contact with them.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO WHEN THINGS “GET BACK TO NORMAL?”
What I am most looking forward to is hugging my grandma, and being able to see my boyfriend and friends without worrying about endangering their health.