n’s teacher gave us homework: write a letter to your child about your life during this pandemic, and keep it so both you and your child will be able to read it in ten years. (n also had a write a letter to himself that he is supposed to read in ten years, when he is 21!) At first, I balked at the idea of having to do “homework”. However, after writing it, I think it is an interesting exercise that will become a valuable keepsake.
May 12, 2020
Dear n,
I am writing this letter to you after being quarantined for approximately nine weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It feels so strange to be living during this unprecedented time. We have witnessed toilet paper and food shortages, seen gas prices tank and unemployment reach an all-time high. Basically the only time Dad or I leave the house is to buy food, and we have to wear a face mask in public. The only time you and k leave the house is to skateboard or scooter around our neighborhood. Who would have ever thought that this is what we would be experiencing in 2020?
These past couple of months have been filled with adjustment. Everything seems to have been cancelled or put on hold. We were disappointed to have to cancel our trips to Seattle and Japan. All of your schooling is done online and you are unable to see your friends. Driving you to soccer practices and Boy Scout meetings has been replaced with making sure you log-on to your video conferences on time. We even attend church by watching service on YouTube! Although Dad did receive a temporary (hopefully) pay-cut, we know that we are lucky to both still have our jobs and our health.
I am sad that you will be missing your in-person 5th grade graduation and all of the festivities that go with it. I appreciate your teacher, Mrs. H (during her last year of teaching!), for having you record your memories during this unique time through this time capsule and scrapbooking. You have worked so hard throughout your years at M***** Elementary, and you deserve to be recognized. Dad and I will try to do our best to celebrate with you at home.
Trying to look at the bright side of this situation, our family has had a LOT of bonding time Now, we actually have time to sit down and eat dinner together because we are not always hurrying off to the next practice or meeting. We have been doing puzzles, taking walks, playing games, trying new recipes and watching movies. I am so glad that this is occurring while you are at a stage where you still enjoy spending time with your parents and sister. Despite the difficulties, I know this time with you is a true gift that I hope you will always remember as well.
Although it seems like time is standing still during this quarantine, I know it is only temporary. I am sure the next ten years will fly by, just as the first eleven years of your life have. We cannot wait to witness how you grow, develop and change into a young adult. Please know that we will always be there to support and encourage you, no matter the circumstances.
Love always,
Mom & Dad