QUARANTHINGS

Have you ever experience living like a prisoner? Perhaps this question tickles your curiosity. In
my 20 years existence, I never imagine that it is possible to for us “free” people to live like
prisoners. I think you all agree with me, right? We were all shocked and exasperated when the
nationwide quarantine has commenced.

I just want to share my thoughts about quarantine: its effects and how I handle it. Hopefully,
after you read this blog post, you can get some ideas on how to live in this era full of
uncertainty.

QUARANTHINGS: THE CAUSE

All the things we experienced right now started with a single virus. I remember in my biology
class, a virus is just a small particle which is able to multiply only within living cells of a host. It is
unexpected that this “tiny and unseen” particle can change the whole world. According to
studies, the virus that is responsible for our suffering is called COVID 19. There are no
antibiotics can work against this virus. It is first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei,
China and this is the start of our agony.

QUARANTINGS: THE EFFECTS

Obviously, COVID 19 Pandemic had many effects brought to us. In economical aspect, there is
slowing down in the global economy. A lot of employees are retrenched because companies do
not generate revenue. In the Philippines, the unemployment rate skyrocketed. This will be
another burden to their cross. My sympathy goes for those families who are struggling right
now.

During September in Naga City, we are celebrating Penafrancia Festival. For Bicolanos, it is
one of the important celebrations we anticipate every year. I think this goes similar to the
provinces that have their own religious/cultural celebration. Due to COVID 19 Pandemic, we are
not able to experience it this year. Of course, social distancing is a must. However, the essence
of celebrating this festivity is somewhat missing. Our spirits hungered for freedom to do things
we usually do in the past.

In the first three months of the quarantine, I was anxious. I was scared. I was terrified. I guess
some people out there felt these emotions. In this time, we cannot predict or forecast what will
happen next. There is so much uncertainty. I am thinking of negative things and eventually it
affected my mental capacity. We keep on saying that we need to be optimistic but I swear, it is
HARD!

I think the support system in the family is needed in this situation. Luckily, my parents are there
to show their love on me. A good strategy that can help address this issue is to give your family
members the love and attention they need to resolve their fears.

COVID 19 Pandemic enlightens my mind about the importance of health. It is indeed health is
wealth. You cannot buy another life. You only live once.
Hence, I have so much respect to our front liners, most especially our healthcare workers. They
are putting their lives on the lines to save people. On a negative note, as the COVID 19 cases
increases, the burdens for hospital beds/spaces are in danger. There are issues about hospitals
neglect other patients. Many nurses and doctors are dying because of the virus. It is saddening
that we cannot control our lives.

QUARANTHINGS: LIFESTYLE

This quarantine changed my life a lot like my sleeping pattern and eating period. However, it is
not good. I think this is the perfect time to take care of ourselves. Prior to this pandemic, we
were busy at work, in school and any appointments outside our homes. Today, we are obliged
to stay at home, thus we have an ample to time to focus on our selves.

We can do workouts to enhance our body built. Also, this is helpful to empower our immune
system which is vital to combat any diseases. We can try painting, cooking or planting. We have
time to discover our hidden talents. In my case, I learned how to cook dishes like Afritada,
Menudo and Adobo. I am delighted that I was able to learn something new in this period. I hope
you also discover your own.

QUARANTHINGS: REALIZATIONS

We cannot hide the fact that COVID 19 Pandemic is a disaster. However for me, it is both
disaster and blessing. It is disaster in a reason of bringing so many problems to our lives.
Millions of people had died. Many businesses had closed. Many people had been unemployed. I
cannot argue with that.

On the positive side, this quarantine taught me the importance of health. The practice of good
hand hygiene is now a necessity.

It taught me to value my family. It taught me to appreciate nature. It taught to value life.

In this time, our social status does not matter anymore. Whether you are poor or wealthy, you
are not exempted to the virus. This is a representation that we humans are equal. What we can
do right now is to help each other. Do not be selfish. Be compassionate to others. Be thankful
for all the blessings that you have. I hope that the spirit of camaraderie and sympathy will
continue even after the pandemic.