#ecq2021

Every one of us is experiencing various emotions as a consequence of this quarantine. Back then, I had no idea that Coronavirus would make the whole world bleed, and that the lockdown wouldn't last too long. Yet, it has been a year since face-to-face classes were suspended, a year has passed, and we still haven't gotten back to our normal routine; in fact, we were placed under enhanced community quarantine again last week. I often dwell on how much this Pandemic has affected people, not only in terms of health, but also in many other facets of our society. Indeed, the world has fallen apart in front of our very eyes. Thus, it has never been easy for me, and of course, it is unlikely to be easy for anyone else as well.

Everyone's quarantine experience is unique. Many of us are confronted with difficulties that are both frustrating and overwhelming. I strive to maintain a social distance from others, but it makes me feel lonely and sad at the same time. Nonetheless, I am constantly attempting to cope with tension and psychological distress. For instance, since I can't meet my friends in person and I desperately want to go out but don't have the opportunity, I instead spend time with my family. We watch films together and sometimes sing along with my cousins when there is no schoolwork. I think it is something I didn't do much before lockdown as I often go home late at night due to school-related extracurricular activities.

I used to do a lot of video shooting at various events both inside and outside of school, but that has all stopped now. Despite this, I continue to edit videos at home during lockdown, but it feels very different than it did before, for reasons I can't explain. Admittedly, this current paradigm of doing almost everything at home is difficult, but at the same time, I'm taking advantage of the opportunity to develop new skills and expand my knowledge by watching tutorials and how-to videos on social media. Occasionally I sketch, play instruments, games, and listen to music. Of course, maintaining social connections is important for me to keep in touch with my friends. And by doing so, I purposefully keep myself distracted from negative thoughts and feelings.

Apart from that, during ECQ, I began reading the Bible more frequently, which has helped me greatly improve my mental wellbeing. Prayer gives me hope and confidence and that trusting Him and His words are truly the greatest weapon for everyone's battle in these uncertain and troubled times when I can feel uneasy, discouraged, guilty, or perhaps even happy. Once more, I've never thought about it before, but in the face of the future's uncertainties, I hope we can hang on to each other with a brave heart. Thus, I still keep in mind that taking good care of myself will better prepare me to care for others as well.