It’s Okay

Were you made for the 2020 COVID lockdown?  Had you been practicing social distancing for a lifetime?  When many others were concerned about isolation, were you internally content with your "alone" time?  How taboo is it to say that you appreciated the lockdown?  Of course, you did not love the communal rise in fear, the loss of lives, the increase in depression rates nationwide, and the economic uncertainty.  However, you actually loved the reprieve from social interactions.  It gave you permission as someone with anxiety to not go to parties, school events, and family gatherings.  The pandemic provided you an easy way out, and you no longer had to go through your litany of excuses to validate your lack of attendance.  I have heard a version of this sentiment from many of my students.  You loved remote learning and wish we could return to it.  You appreciated the freedom to learn with your camera off without concern that classmates were looking at you.  Your grades improved without the social pressures.  You are not alone.  Regardless of how taboo it may sound that you found solace hibernating in your home, there is no shame in honoring that part of yourself.  You may not feel the comfort to share that feeling with others; however, wouldn't it provide you some relief to accept that part of you?  It's okay. 

- Lel Gray Levin