By: Michelle Cao
Amidst a global pandemic, it is difficult not to get caught up in a constant state of
rumination and self-pity. Let’s face it: With the world seemingly turning upside down
right in front of your eyes, you almost inevitably get caught up in this whirlwind of
negative thoughts and constant criticism. It seems as if depressing headlines are held
on repeat and the cycle of bad news will never come to an end. The small voice inside
your head eventually overpowers the last shred of hope you have. It’s been
days...weeks... months...since you last talked to your best friend or hugged your
grandma. You begin to feel this negative sentiment slowly taking over your mind. It feels
as if there are simply no words to express this feeling and thought process.
As much as quarantining has been isolating and difficult, it is so important to realize that
so many people around the world are going through and feeling the same way. You are
not alone! You can’t control what is happening around the globe, but you can control
what goes on inside your head. Changing your mindset and attitude will go a long way
in helping you cope and see hope during these unprecedented times.
I started a journal titled ‘Quarantine Chronicles’ in efforts to recognize and reflect upon
the positivity instilled in my experiences, thoughts, and feelings. It has enabled me to
interpret my emotions on a deeper level and feel complete in a way I have never
imagined existed. I spend my late nights reflecting and writing away about something
that stood out to me during the day. Sometimes it is as simple as analyzing a negative
thought process or remembering something that made me smile a bit brighter.
Three weeks ago I wrote...
“Tonight, I’m smiling as I write this because I am instantly reminded of my appreciation
and love for music. This morning, I received my ukulele in the mail. It came in a nicely
packaged brown box with bubble wrap. When I finally held it in my hands and plucked a
string, my face immediately lit up. I now realized why... I’ve been playing in the school
band since my elementary school and this has been the longest I have gone without
hearing instrumental music. Hearing the ukulele sound for the first time only reminded
me of how precious life is. Instant flashbacks and good times flooded my memory as I
couldn’t help but burst into tears. I realized how much I missed my friends...
teachers....and going to school. Guilt trickles down my back as I remembered
complaining about waking up early, staying up late, being tired, and all that. Instead of
slipping back into a negative mentality, I picked up my phone and texted a few friends I
haven’t talked to in a while. It was so rejuvenating to reach out to those who are feeling the same way -- reminiscent and disheartened. Joy and gratitude fill my heart as I end
my day. I am feeling super grateful for modern technology and the Internet because I
can go to sleep tonight, knowing my friends are safe and well.”
I have always wanted to keep a journal because I was so amazed and inspired by the
perfectly managed journals on Instagram. I never found the motivation and commitment to do so myself because I was afraid that I would never be able to keep something so aesthetic. I decided to give a try after finding inspiration from what my teacher said. “Journals aren’t meant to be perfect. They are meant to be yours.” I jump-started my journal during the beginning of the quarantine to capture heartfelt moments and reflect upon daily experiences.
There is so much positivity and beauty that goes unrecognized. The art of journaling will
never be perfect and that’s completely normal. Journaling is a powerful and amazing
way to relax while practicing self-care. Allowing your mind to pause and reflect upon
previous experiences will enable you to appreciate everything life has to offer.
Comments