Everything I have taken for granted has hit me little by little, the longer this pandemic keeps us in quarantine. They range from the most meaningful things like being able to hug my grandparents to seemingly less significant things, like eating at my favorite restaurant. I am ashamed there are even that many to begin with. But when it comes down to it, all of these things, big or small are so incredibly meaningful and all have one thing in common… Each and every memory I have, that I wish I held on to tighter, was experienced with other people. Whether they were brand new friends or family I’ve grown up with, I was never alone. I have learned the power that comes with human connection is something that is irreplaceable and could never, ever be replicated. 

This quarantine has made me understand that I truly didn’t know what I had until it was gone. Some of the best moments of my life have come and gone without me even knowing it in that present time. Having to go months without seeing friends and family in person has taken a big toll on my own mental health. Honestly, I have always been naturally more extroverted and relied on these daily interactions to have a pleasant day. Some days feel lonelier than others even when I have four other people in my house. And a hug from my best friend right now would mean the world to me. The anxiety of keeping up with schoolwork at home is more manageable some weeks over others. However, I feel like doing college online has become more of a mindless routine completing essays and exams without really being able to absorb the material in this environment. 

The uncertainty of our near future often overpowers my mind and I wish there was something I could do about it. It has been tough trying to adapt and keep myself sane, but I’ve learned a lot about myself throughout the process. I have also learned to prioritize my mental health now more than ever being that, prior to the current situation we are in, I never focused on how to help myself in this regard. These thoughts and emotions were never as prevalent when I was constantly lucky enough to be surrounded by the positive, supporting, beautiful people I have grown to love. That is the power of human connection.