Today is a Better Day
I remember thinking back then that I wish I had more time for myself. I kept wishing for a day of relaxation, free from the stress of tomorrow and deadlines. But now that it is actually given and right in front of me, I am clueless on how to spend my day without feeling that sense of emptiness.
Quarantine's first introduction in my life was quite vexing. I was really looking forward to visiting my friend's house for the first time. The day before we were supposed to go, the suspension of classes due to Covid was announced. My parents already agreed on me going but the advisory changed everything. My parents told me that I should not go for my safety and everyone else's. At first, I was bummed out about what my parents said but slowly I began to accept my fate. I understood why they changed their decision. In the end, we decided it was best that we postpone our little get-together.
Countless days have passed by and my daily routine blurs into a mixture of school work, scrolling through Tiktok, eating, and sleeping. In some exceptionally boring days, I began to question my existentiality. I always tell myself that better days are coming, but when?
Slowly, I tried to begin thinking differently. Why not make the days better now? And so I did. I found new hobbies I can dedicate my time to. Hobbies like reading a new book series, watching anime, playing mobile games with friends, and more. I realized that what is the point of waiting for better days, thinking that quarantine is a challenge, or something to overcome? Why not think of quarantine as something that can make you grow as a person? To learn something new from something new? To make today a better day.
Yes, I'm still waiting for the day I can finally see my friends and other family members face-to-face. But why focus on something that you can't do? Why not focus on something that you can do now?
What about you? What have you realized 6 months into quarantine?
By: Hector Addawe