An Optimistic Attitude: Positive Pandemic?
by Cailin Lyons, Class of 2020, Veterinary Assistant
In a world where we see frustration over long lines, complaints about short supplies, and comments about being “stuck” at home, this senior takes a positive look at what the current quarantine has meant for her.
Whoever thought we would be going through something like this? Quarantine! They say that these are uncharted waters -- that they never thought we’d experience anything like this. I sure didn't. Even though this has been such a tough time for everyone, I have been looking at the bright side of things, and I attribute this to my ability to smile. Over all of my social media platforms, I've seen such something stunning. There’s a change — a beautiful change. I see that those on my friend list are looking at life so differently, and so many are vowing to take these hard times and make them better. On my social platform, everyone has made a decision to come together (while staying a safe 6 feet apart) to bring light to the darkness of the situation. Students who normally drag themselves out of bed to go to school are now begging to go back, and it's almost unbelievable. Students whose plans may have been put “on hold” or canceled altogether are quietly mourning, but they’re doing this together. At this time, I can say that we are going through a “positive pandemic.”
Social media can be incredibly negative and raw at times, but I have noticed a recent shift; my timelines have been different from what I usually see. Through vibrant videos and funny pictures and simple random thoughts, others are trying to give light to the rest. I know I've enjoyed every second of it! My circle of social media friends are all noticing little things in life and not taking them for granted anymore. Positive reinforcements from here to there really can make a difference in someone's life, whether it's just sending them a sweet and positive text message or even a phone call checking up on our close loved ones. Some are sharing teddy bears in their windows or making masks for those who we’ve come to know as “essential workers.” Milestones of what “should have been” appear on the calendar: SkillsUSA service project at Camp Kon-o-Kwee or State Championships, preparations for senior portfolio presentations, NOCTI and Keystone preparations — we all call to check on each other (from a safe distance, of course). I'm glad we've all chosen to dispose of that negativity and instead make someone else's day better by just sharing a silly picture or appreciation post for what we do have and not what we don't have in these moments. With the right approach, we can take these hard times for the better.
Being stuck in the house can get pretty boring at times. What if, instead of being “stuck,” you thought, “I am safe in my house?’ It changes the perspective. Many businesses and stores are temporarily shut down, but who says you can't have fun at home, especially with your family? Many families have been hosting family movie nights -- popcorn included! Others have headed to the back yard or an open field for a good afternoon of kite flying. Social distance is a must for this task, so it’s the perfect activity for an outing these days! Getting outside and enjoying nature on the trails at a safe distance can be a great activity and quality family time. Now that a “Stay at Home Order” has been issued and “just hanging out” is out , board games have been a fan favorite in my household lately. We have also enjoyed trying new recipes to bake, but be careful to avoid the COVID “15” … pounds, that is. There's so much within your home and family but often, we all get caught up in social media and don't see the bigger picture in life.
Throughout these past few weeks while getting started on “homeschooling,’ this experience has also shown students just how much school has an effect on them and how much they’d miss it when it’s gone. Lots of students my age used to be so eager to graduate and had to drag themselves out of bed to go to school, but not now. It’s all that’s on our minds. We are all so anxious to go back (yes even the ones who drag themselves out of bed in the morning) — even for one day, for one class, for one moment. It's unbelievable to see, but it’s pretty amazing too. Actually being IN school does make a difference, and even though we do have online schooling, it's just not the same. We miss our hands-on experience, we miss our daily routine, and most importantly we miss our teachers who are there to help us through. I know it goes the same for the teachers. Within their emails, they show us how much they miss us and care for us, and somehow through a computer screen, they still show how much they believe in us and want the best for us! They work so hard to make everything happen for us, and I can confidently say we appreciate every moment that they give.
This will be one of the toughest times, but i think together we can all do this thing called “life.” Even though the Class of 2020 have to wait a little longer for the exciting “senior things,” it is still sad to hear that our traditional senior year is over so soon. I have so much faith in being able to see an end to the sickness that is in our community, but I also encourage everyone to stay positive and do your part.
Robert Tew once wrote, “ The struggle you're in today is developing the strength you need tomorrow.” Keep a positive attitude and we can all fight this together.
The photos above feature pictures of the Eagle Blog student staff.
Senior veterinary student, Cailin Lyons has been accepted to California University of Pennsylvania and will pursue a bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science. A Peer Leader, she is also an active competitor in both FFA and SkillsUSA and has served the Class of 2020 as an officer for each year at LCCTC. She would like to, one day, become a Veterinary Assistant instructor at a CTE.