A few weeks ago, I would have confidently told you that I was an introvert. I’m not one to talk, or text, or go to parties. Now though, I think I’m starting to understand why humans are defined as social creatures. I’m not going to deny that I don’t miss some parts of my day, but suddenly, other parts that seemed unquestionably normal, like coming in to school and saying Hi to all of my friends, are beginning to look precious. Even staying long after school for clubs and activities, though tiring, would be a welcome change right now. I’m starting to think that time spent away from home might have its benefits after all!
Speaking of home, I love my family with all of my heart, but sometimes, after three weeks, even they can get on my nerves. So, I’ve developed a system. Each time I get frustrated, or start wishing that I was somewhere, anywhere, but stuck in my house, I fold a paper crane. It calms me down, and helps me remember that a little bit of patience is what we need to get through this sane, and in one piece. There may not be much that we the teenagers of the world can do to help the countless medical staff and first responders risking their lives to help our countries, but a little bit of patience would sure go a long way.
I’m not sure how long this might go on for, but I think, in the meantime, the best thing I can do is keep folding cranes.
They say if you fold a thousand you can make a wish…
Rebecca Smith is a student at The Prout School in Wakefield, Rhode Island. She is a 2018 Write Rhode Island winner.
WRITE RHODE ISLAND: OUR LIVES NOW 