As we approach the one year anniversary of COVID-19, we at TimminsToday find ourselves reflecting on what the last year has meant for us personally.
It has been a whirlwind year, filled with many uncertainties and ups and downs.
And whether it was self-imposed, government-mandated, or a combination of both, we've all experienced some form of lockdown or isolation over the last 365 days. For many of us, this has caused anxiety and isolation like we've never experienced before.
However, throughout the darkness, the criticism of politics, dwelling on what is wrong, and frustrations with ever-changing rules and regulations surrounding the virus, as the world came to a shocking and utterly sudden halt, we have undoubtedly changed our perspective on what really matters in life.
And, with a little hope, maybe some of the lessons we've learned during COVID-19, we will carry on with us post-pandemic, making us a better and more united society.
So TimminsToday wants to know, what life lessons have learned over the last year?
We asked some of our staff that very question. Here's what they had to say:
Appreciate the Small Things
"What a ride the past year has been.
There have been cancelled plans, isolation, and a lot of uncertainty.
There have also been hidden blessings.
I’ve learned to slow down and found new ways to connect with people.
When other people turned to baking bread, I picked up pandemic cross-stitching. I’ve created everything from polite (and slightly sassy) reminders to wash your hands to things Doug Ford has said that you just can’t make up.
It’s also reminded me how lucky we are to live in Northern Ontario.
This past year, I’ve spent more time outdoors than ever. From lazy days at the cottage to camping, skiing, snowshoeing and exploring new trails — there have been so many ways to keep active.
The promise of better days is on the horizon.
When we get a chance to reconnect and do all things we've missed (however that may look in the new normal), I hope to keep appreciating the small things and take more time to explore our own backyard."
- Maija Hoggett, Community editor
A Year To Remember
"2020 will definitely be a year to remember.
It was filled with lots of uncertainty and anxiety for me, but it was also a year of appreciating little things and cherishing connections with your loved ones.
I learned that I shouldn’t put off till tomorrow what I can do today. I used to think I had lots of time to hang out with my friends or do something I’ve always wanted to try. But once the pandemic started and our lives were put on hold, I realized that it wouldn’t be possible in the next little while. So, if you want to buy that dress, eat the last piece of cake or say ‘I love you’ to someone, don’t hesitate to do it because who knows what will happen tomorrow?
I also learned to just go with the flow. I think there’s no point worrying about what may happen in the future, so I’m just trying to be grateful for what I have and look forward to reuniting with my friends and family."
- Dariya Baiguzhiyeva, Reporter
Certainly this crisis has brought out some good things.
More empathy, more awareness, greater strength to hold on during challenging times.
So take some time to reflect and tell us, what have you learned? Let us know by emailing your submission to [email protected].
We will be posting your responses next week.
