Precautions against virus put everyday life in perspective

Posted April 16, 2020

I am a double major in journalism and political science at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. The coronavirus pandemic has led to many lifestyle changes for me and my family.

Though I do not know anyone who has been diagnosed with the virus, the precautions that have been taken to decrease the spread of the virus have changed nearly all the things I take for granted every day. This unprecedented situation that we all find ourselves in has put into perspective for me, and those around me, what is most valuable, and what we can go without but never considered we would have to.

For my mother, the thing that has come to the forefront of importance in her life is time. My mother works at a clinic in our small town, and because of the schools closing, has now also become a kindergarten teacher for my little sister. After working all day at the clinic, she comes home and carries out the equivalent of a full day of kindergarten classes, cooks dinner, and makes sure things are ready for the following day.

My younger sister and brother have also realized what is most important. My brother Adrian’s senior year at high school ended in an unexpected way. The long hours spent at home alone since then have shown to him how important those last moments with his classmates were. My younger sister Piper, though only in kindergarten with many school years ahead, has come to understand the value of seeing her classmates and teacher every day.

My perspective on important things in life has changed as well. I never considered that having a set schedule for my life is so crucial to productivity. Creating and sticking to a schedule has been of utmost importance to me during this time. Moving home from college early has also made me realize the importance of quality time, enjoying the scene that I am a part of before it draws to a close.

Ultimately, I have found that for me and the people I know and love, rushing and working to be done with everything is not what is important. Rather, it has become more valuable to take time to enjoy each moment, service, meal or experience, because you can never know when those things will be no longer be available.