As we heed the call of public officials to practice social distancing (let’s do our part and stay home), the reality of this pandemic is setting in.
It’s surreal how things have changed from only a few weeks ago when all was well on our campuses. Now, the world is virtually locked down as we attempt to flatten the spread of COVID-19.
Courses have moved online. This transition is stressful, but it’s only a symptom of the greater issues our society is facing.
These are unprecedented times and the practice of self-isolation will present many challenges. It’s important for us to take good care of ourselves and others—albeit, from a distance. Our physical health is important, but we must look after our mental health, too. Personally, I’ll be finding ways to stay positive so that I don’t become depressed.
As an introverted person, attending classes on the Lansdowne campus provides me with a social fix. Losing this social activity will make the coming weeks difficult, but I’m prepared to meet the challenge.
Let me tell you—it’s tough finding the motivation to complete assignments. I’m distracted by the air of uncertainty that surrounds us. Then, when courses end, we’ll have a lot more time on our hands.
Lately, my free time is spent alone, watching Bonnie Henry’s coronavirus updates and deciding whether to have smoked oysters or fried spam for supper (don’t judge—the shelves were bare during my last trip to the store). Technology is my friend. An internet connection allows me to complete my assignments from home and stay digitally connected with others.
Self-isolation must be difficult for extroverts, those who get their charge from interacting with people, too. Thank goodness for phones—let’s make sure we’re using them.
While the practice of self-isolation is an inconvenience, it does provide an opportunity to get creative. We’ll need to be creative in how we function day to day, how we stay connected, and how we entertain ourselves while keeping a safe distance from others.
To combat boredom, loneliness, and depression, I’ll be attempting to make a variety of tasty meals with the items I have available. Anyone up for a FaceTime dinner date? This evening’s entrée is oven-toasted sardines seasoned with black pepper served over fusilli pasta with a fine, marinara Ragu.
Eventually I’ll need to visit a store to restock. I only go outside to exercise and I avoid places where folks gather—like the laundromat. I’m prepared to boil my drawers in a pot on the stove if it becomes necessary. Seriously.
It’s important we all understand that no one is immune from COVID-19. Our age does not protect us from contracting or spreading this virus.
We may be feeling afraid and alone, but we’re all in this together. Be kind to your fellow beings. Stay calm and stay connected.
I hope to see some of you on campus during better times in the not too distant future.