Two years ago

Days have gone by so fast, and it feels like it was only yesterday when an announcement came out saying that face-to-face classes were to be canceled in the meantime due to the outbreak. Then, several physical stores have closed, and it has caused several people to lose their jobs. In just a snap, a new normal has evolved.

The thirtieth day of January in the year 2020 marks a very notable year.

It is the day when the first-ever case of the novelcorona virus was recorded in the Philippines. Much more when the local first-ever transmission starts. Some get shocked and dazzled by their position. Some went panicked and bought several items, especially alcohol and face masks.

It really caused a sudden increase in the prices of these items, and some have also run out of stock. Some people do not really know what to do during those times. Anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders were developed by some people, and it is so sad that others still take them for granted and even make jokes out of them.

Then here comes the time that online shopping has become more popular.

Aside from being convenient, it really has a lot of advantages. Less hassle, and the like. Many businesses also see it as an opportunity. Though it's hard during the early stages of incorporating their business online, some have really become successful in it. I know a friend who also started her own business in Shopee and I am glad because she is having a lot of sales. I planned to do the same, but I really don't know what to sell. Besides, I spend most of my free time here, enjoying writing and reading.

When the number of cases spiked, I was really terrified.

I developed a fear I never imagined I would have. During those times, I am really afraid to get out, even from our house. It's only the four corners of our house. It feels boring during those times, but I can't help it. I focused my attention on doing productive things, and one day, I just found myself here. Thanks to the post I read online,

I remember that during my first week here, I don't know anyone, but I am glad that some of you seemed to have been really friendly, even in person. I am happy that, as the days go by, more and more people get to see my writings. I found new friends virtually, and I am very happy to meet you guys. No words can explain the gratitude that I feel.

Things seem to be going back to normal now.

And I am sure that we all learned a lot of things. We put our loved ones and ourselves first. Many of us may have taken human connections for granted until the coronavirus came along and made us realize a lot of things. The importance of spending time with our closest family and friends has risen to the front, and giving importance to ourselves, especially our mental health, has become a priority.

Although every day seems to have been frustrating, it is necessary to focus on the value of our relationships with family and friends. Seeing folks we haven't been able to interact with face-to-face when constraints begin to ease will seem even more special. It is a good thing there are social media apps that make it possible to contact them and have some video calls, especially when we are away from them. That is why technology is really playing a great role.

Indeed, prevention is a great power and responsibility. Individuals have paid more attention to what they eat, how much exercise they get, and by regularly washing or sanitizing their hands. Because at times like this, responsibility and prevention are powerful tools for improving our health and well-being. Hopefully, we can all fully recover soon: ourselves, the environment, and, of course, our economy.