Pause for the Present

More often than not, our society is always looking ahead and planning for the future. I am a prime example, a planner. I like to make a routine and schedule, and stick with it. Seeing as I am graduating in May and a naturally social person, I like to keep busy. But there was no way to plan for the impact of COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus. 

With the development of the global pandemic and the rise of uncertainty about the future, it seems most of the world is worried and scared. People don’t know what will happen days, weeks or even months from now. Schools and universities have transitioned to online learning, grocery stores have been emptied, and many people have lost their jobs. 

Personally, it’s devastating losing the last few months of my final year at Simmons — removed from classrooms, friends, and professors. Having to leave my apartment, the city I love, and all the projects that were left unfinished; including a great internship that had to end abruptly. I am upset about all the activities and celebratory ceremonies that were in place to mark the end of my college career.

While the adjustment has been sudden and saddening, being home during this stressful period has welcomed reflection. The heart-breaking news is everywhere — social media, television, word-of-mouth — and it is exhausting. Healthcare professionals are working tirelessly to help and heal those infected with COVID-19, and it still seems this virus’s death toll is only going to get worse. But I do what I can to prioritize tasks such as finishing school, staying healthy and trying to stay positive. Though I still have classes via Zoom and assignments that consume some time, I have more time to live in the present. When I was in Boston, my days were scheduled from 7:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. and routine.