Pandemic House: Can DIY Help to Pull College Students Out?
September 17 was the day to celebrate the Constitution, but you forgot it. You might be chatting about Casual Friday, the dressiest day of the week, with your course mates or opine on educational inequality. (White students return to schools while students of color learn from home.) The pandemic forced you to retreat into your shell, becoming more introverted (if you're an introvert). The term is about to start. Can self-improvement projects help you? The answer is yes. How was summer?
You made a list, namely the books to put aside to read this summer, the books that filled you with sudden curiosity, which wasn't easily justified, and the books you need to go with other books on your shelves. Summer would come to an end, though. If you have more than one life, you would certainly read. But your days are likely numbered. It must be the upcoming election, probably the most complicated in modern history. It's not hard to imagine an election during a pandemic marred by disenfranchisement, prompting you to recall "Fahrenheit 451". Ray Bradbury wrote it during the rise of the Cold War and the early years of the television industry. The novella may have similarities with "Nineteen Eighty-Four", but George Orwell's (political) message was loud and clear. Bradbury's message stressed the importance of reading during an increasingly visual culture. However, the coursework taught you three things: There are books you needn't read; there are books that are too expensive, so you wait for the paperback copies (or a friend to lend you a copy); and there are books made for purposes other than reading. If it reminds you of those hangry (or irritable) moments, then you must do something about it.
8 Tips to Help Yourself During the Pandemic
Ask yourself if posting on social media will help you (or anyone). You read "Invisible Cities", where (author) Italo Calvino imagined a lengthy conversation between Marco Polo and Kublai Khan. The Venetian merchant told the Mongol emperor about Italian cities that may (or may not) existed, prompting you to wonder if Xanadu, where Kublai Khan lived, was imaginary like the lost continent of Atlantis. It would be an interesting topic for a college essay, but your social media followers won't comment on it (if you post it). It must be the winners of the 72nd Primetime Emmy Awards, where they thanked everyone from their living rooms. You might be tempted to share a link to a news report on Providence College, where 120 students were tested positive. Don't. Think of your favorite (travel) quote: To know me, you have to fly with me.
Divide your room into smaller sections. Your room became your whole world (during the pandemic). You must divide your room into smaller sections, so you can create an illusion of a bigger space. You should be receptive to this tip after you became manic claustrophobic and you noticed your discomfort due to limited movement. (And it's not winter. Yet.) This is probably the best way to distract yourself during this confusing time. Furthermore, space is looking after you. Give it some love in return.
Turn your chair to the "play position". Your professor told you that people once read standing up. They did that when they got tired of horseback riding. It might be hard to imagine reading on horseback, but it should make you look for the most comfortable position. Curled up? Certainly not. On your stomach? No way. Yoga position? Naturally. NOT! If you're tired of the sofa, try standing (unless you have a deck chair).
Pay attention to home makeovers. The tiles on the kitchen look moldy. You didn't clean the window, which offers a view of a small yard (or courtyard). And you were obsessed about the proximity of your home (or dorm) to the nearest bus station (or tube line). (You can't figure out the exact distance in meters.) t seemed like you put all your eggs on the "Going Out" basket, as staying at home unsettled you. The pandemic should have taught you that it's an incredible privilege to live in a home (or dorm) that is stable, safe and calm. If you haven't changed your mindset, spend a day on the sofa.
It's OK to be socially phobic, but let others express their anxiety. You look forward to meeting your friends in the (shared) kitchen table, but they are capable of bringing Covid-19 home. It's OK to avoid them, but don't ignore their eyes (or gestures) that show that they are anxious and grieving. Listen to them, if not read their lengthy chat.
Share. What are the ten places in America to see the fall foliage without the crowds? If you are choking, look up. Agree? Wildfire, hurricane, coronavirus. Is somebody trying to tell you something? You might get a witty response, which should make you feel good. You can also do something nice for your family and friends. Make no demands, making it clear that you're thinking of them. Everyone needs a good laugh as well.
Don't forget the artists. Many are offering exhibits/lessons online. Don't ever think that you pay them because they must find other ways of living. If you have traveled to Europe, then you know the value of the arts. If not, Google it (or visit a big city near you).
Give money. Think of a mental health nonprofit. Think of a homeless shelter. Think of someone who provides your service. If you have money to give, don't be hesitant I'm doing it.
The Coronavirus is Here to Stay
There are certain places that help you overcome that fear of going outside. They are art galleries, cinemas, theaters, which should help you live with a shifting, mutating, evolving threat. A virtual visit will be good enough. You won't get a thank-you note, but you have done your part in saving lives. You will look back at this distressing period someday, possibly remember it fondly. You might write a bestseller, if not produce a fine piece of artwork.
