By McKay Lucas (’21)

A glimpse at calendars filled with big red X’s across family vacations and camps has caused fear in families who dread even hearing the word “unprepared.” However, the predicted continuation of social distancing doesn’t mean that we must languish this summer. Instead, it provides an opportunity for rest, a few deep breaths, and even some extra learning.

 

Yes, you read that right. I know that the last thing most of us want to do is take another online quiz or make another Flipgrid presentation. But there’s more to learning than just school. We now have the valuable opportunity for self-improvement in athletics, the arts, and other passions without worrying about impending school assignments. We will undoubtedly return to school with copious entrepreneurs, proficient bakers, and some whose house transformations rival those on Fixer Upper.

 

When reflecting on the benefits on quarantine, self improvement is high on the list. Opportunities for life to slow down are a close second, followed by time for new hobbies. Copious amounts of family time hopscotches around this list. By now, most families have arrived at the “easily annoyed with each other” stage in quarantine. Fights over whose Zoom call takes priority often make it feel like family time is lucky to even be counted as a silver lining.

 

However, family dinners and nights spent playing UNO boost family time to the most valuable takeaway from quarantine. It looks like this summer will include a lot more time with siblings and parents, whether we like it or not. Even when I become frustrated with my family, I try to see it from their side. We’ve all had the experience of working tirelessly on a group project where it just seems like other group members aren’t doing any work. I often imagine that my parents feel as if they are the one group member putting in effort, especially on the days when I wake up and lunch is a more appropriate meal than breakfast. Siblings know how to push our buttons on a completely new level. In a group project, siblings are the ones who start side conversations which distract from the project but also know when it’s time to put in the work.

 

This summer won’t be just the way we had it pictured in August 2019, and that’s ok! There will be setbacks and disappointments when we think about “what could have been.” However, there will also be new opportunities for growth and reflection. Make a mindful decision to view this summer as open instead of empty. Play with your dog, wear your sunscreen, and don’t forget to keep moving forward.