by Alexis S.

How many articles/blogs have you read about COVID-19? You’re probably tired of them at this point. But have you, yourself, ever thought about where you are today compared to where you were one year ago, 2020? Things have changed, especially in my life. There were fun times with smiles and laughter. And other times, when things weren’t so great, but one way or another my family got through it.

In January 2021, my family didn’t change any of the precautions we took to stay safe. We still cleaned groceries with alcohol and never considered eating out. During that time, “Zoom School” (as my brother and I call it) continued, and I did not like it, and to this day still don’t. It honestly felt like 2020 was happening all over again, a repeat of history. But all of a sudden, something we all hoped would be here sooner or later was here. A COVID-19 vaccine was released and safe. That’s not all that happened, schools in my district opened back up, and more and more people began to get out comfortably. With the news of a vaccine being released, most, if not all, of my family got it right away. My aunt from Los Angeles got the shot, and after not seeing her for over a year, on April 23, 2021, she came to visit. That year felt like a century, I’d never gone that long without seeing her. My mom teaches in my district and when we found out she’d be returning to work, she, and I’m sure many other teachers, didn’t know what to expect. The questions went on and on, such as, “What will it look like?” or “Do I even remember how to teach?” The idea of having students back on campus should not be overlooked, but a time to celebrate, and remember that at one time students were not there. Not to mention, we have less than a week left of school. Yes, something to finally look forward to. Last summer, my family questioned what would happen next, the questions honestly never stopped. But this summer, knowing the conditions are getting better and better, we will laugh, live, and have fun, of course. My mom and dad are planning trips, one back home to Houston, Texas. I will finally get to see my WHOLE family in one place, and I’m deeply looking forward to it. My family has found the heart to accept this “new normal,” and COVID-19 will not prevent us from living. COVID will just have to live with us.

2020 was a year I hope to never relive. Now, in 2021 we are conquering Coronavirus in a completely different way. My family is finally getting out on a day to day basis. I have had the opportunity to visit extended family and they have been able to see me. I have created new routines that I may have never considered or even thought about a year ago. Although there is still a risk, and we have a long way to go, we as a society have made big progress, and our growth should not be taken for granted. Have you accepted the new normal for what it is? Or are you wasting time, waiting for the old days that may never return? Don’t forget to wear your mask!