When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I had a lot of mixed feelings. I was a little bit scared, a little bit worried, a little bit annoyed, but mostly very sad.

I was sad about what I was going to miss out on and the things I was looking forward to that were canceled.

When I look back, this was a selfish way to feel. There are people out there sick and dying from this disease, and I was worried about missing out on my senior year of college. Perspective is a hot commodity right now, but don’t forget that your problems do matter, no matter the size.

Yes, it is sad that my junior year of college was cut short and my senior year is under quarantine. But you know what? Life goes on. It really does. During this quarantine, I have gotten to spend so much more time with my parents, which is a gift as I’m about to go into the working world. I have also gotten to spend so much time with my friends— not time going places or doing things, but time just hanging out. When I look at the future, I’m excited, scared, and feeling many mixed emotions, but at least I got to have time to slow down for just a tiny bit before I go out into the real world. 

When all of this is over, we will be stronger, more patient, and happier. I really believe that. If there is anything this pandemic has taught us, it’s that we never know what the future holds. 

Be well, Auburn. 

Photography: Abbey C.