Assignment 24 - Elizabeth Moore - Quarantine is the Move

Junior year was, suffice it to say, an interesting experience. The first few months of the year were encumbered by my various obligations – Dance Blue, WMHSMUN, FCA, etc. – all of which, while draining, were quite successful. But after the hubbub of fall club events died down, I was left fatigued and in serious need of a break. Alas, mid-year junioritis is the plight of every 3^rd year high schooler. Dragging myself through the monotonous routine of the school year, craving the occasional abnormality that gave me a few minutes of relief from my dull quotidian responsibilities, I was, frankly, quite miserable. I neglected spending time socializing outside of school in favor of wasting time at home or catching up on absent work. And the few moments a day when I could enjoy time with my friends were often nothing more than a string of complaints about our better than average lives. My good days were few and far between, most of them a result of conversations as I painted with Mrs. Riley. And then came COVID-19. I had never been more relieved! I mourn for those whose businesses, lives, or loved ones have been adversely affected by the societal shutdown of the last few months. But after I adjusted to life in quarantine, these past few weeks have been my favorite of the year. The instant stress relief when all of my activities were cancelled has restored me to a happy, energetic person. I have enough energy to devote to connecting with my friends and family, and as a result, I feel closer to them than ever. I’ve had ample time for some introspection, and I’ve made my mind up to become more gracious and compassionate. And I’ve finally been able to take time to do things that I truly love, like developing my painting business and my skills with a paintbrush! Suffice it to say, after COVID-19 fades into the history textbooks, I plan to continue living my life quarantine-style.