By ALAINA OLSON – Student contributor
It is crazy to think about how much words have an affect on our lives, how a few simple words can turn your whole life upside down. This is exactly what happened to me.
About two weeks ago, I was told I had to quarantine due to potential exposure to COVID-19. Before delving further into my experience, I’d like to say that it was not as bad as I thought it would be. As frustrating as it was to not be able to go anywhere, participate in sporting activities, or go to school, I have learned to appreciate the little things in life even as simple as going to Walmart.
Initially, I was annoyed. I was annoyed that all my activities were gone in the flash of an eye. I was annoyed that I couldn’t go anywhere or do anything. I was annoyed that COVID-19 had once again cancelled something that I had been looking forward to.
In the beginning, I was really nervous about keeping up with my assignments and how I would maintain my good grades without instruction. However, teachers were really understanding and helpful, and they made sure I understood all of the assignments.
Staying at home was not all that bad. It gave me time to practice softball (on my own), relax, and focus on my online schoolwork. Also, I had spare time to read, talk to my friends via FaceTime, and watch some YouTube videos.
Quarantining wasn’t the most fun experience, and I would by no means wish it upon anyone. However, even though it was frustrating and challenging at times to go against my normal routine, I knew I was doing it for a good cause. Despite all my struggles, I knew it was for the safety of those around me.
After experiencing quarantine, my perspective of ordinary activities changed dramatically. You have to live every day as though it is your last, play every game as though it is the last time you will ever step onto the field, and, cherish every moment, not take anything for granted.
Alaina Olson is a student at Cranberry High School and a member of Cranberry Chronicles, the school’s journalism/publications class.
