My Life in Quarantine

Kyle Roethlin, Staff Writer

As of the day of writing, April 2nd, 2020, I have been in quarantine for 21 days. In these past few weeks of intense social distancing, I, like millions of other Americans, have not had much face-to-face contact with the outside world, other than my neighbors or the occasional stranger I may pass on a midday run. It has been hard, but I have developed a rhythm to my daily routine, and hang on to hope that things will get better.

 

Ever since Oratory’s online schooling began two weeks ago, I’ve noticed that my days have sped up and fallen into a tight rhythm. I usually wake up between 8 and 9 AM before going downstairs to watch about 45 minutes of Netflix. I then eat breakfast before beginning the day’s work. I then work from around 11 to 4, depending upon how much work there is, with a small lunch in between. Lunch is usually just some fruit, as I don’t get too hungry with all of the sitting down. After I finish my work, I will usually go for a run before showering. By then, it is around 6, and I eat dinner around then. After that, I’m free to do what I want, usually Netflix or video games with friends. I finally fall asleep around 12. Given that Oratory is starting some live classes next week, I’m not sure if this rhythm will hold.

 

Fortunately, my family has been able to stay healthy throughout this thus far. I hope that remains true throughout this outbreak. Regardless, it has already taken many events away from myself and millions of other high school seniors around the country. Although I was not a part of a spring sport, the last spring season for seniors has been disrupted or canceled. NJSIAA claims to keep a season running, but I personally find it hard to believe this will occur, even if we achieve the best-case scenario for this pandemic. I was looking forward to going to Portugal on a school trip with my friends. Although major events like prom and graduation haven’t officially been disrupted yet (I think?), I find it hard to conjure up a scenario where these events occur. And if they do, it certainly will not be the same. These realities are unfortunate, but if it means keeping people safe and maybe salvaging a somewhat normal summer, I think it is worth it.

 

In my time in quarantine, I’ve also had a lot of time to think about the daily routines we would take for granted. I honestly miss waking up early for school, especially if it means seeing my friends and not being trapped in my house. We now live in a world where we are threatened by even going to the grocery store. And when we get there, the shelves are often empty. These are undoubtedly scary, horrific times. Fortunately, I think when we get through the chaos to the light at the end of the tunnel, a very dim light right now, we will have a greater appreciation for the chaos of normal, daily life.