HAPPINESS CAN BE FOUND EVEN IN THE DARKEST OF TIMES, IF ONE ONLY REMEMBERS TO TURN ON THE LIGHT

How did we cope with social distancing and cancellation of life as we knew it? Brampton Libraries sought views of youth on sharing inspiring connections and uncovering ways to cope. A selection, below:

Khushi Jamnadas: I have taken the time to think about the positive outcomes around this pandemic. I have had a lot more time to spend with my family, and focus on my wellbeing. I have gone deeper into exploring some of my passions and hobbies, and really practised my drawing skills. I found this amazing as I never knew I had such potential. These may be troubled times, and that’s exactly why we must come together and face them as a team.

Hadia Katal: My positive take from this situation is that I am grateful I live in Canada. This country has been on top of most of the big priorities such as the unemployment situation. There is a really organized and efficient system in place so people are not struggling completely financially. I learned that I took for granted the small but important things. Like taking a walk, going to the library or school without restrictions. The most amazing thing I did was to learn cooking and playing the guitar while at home.

Harsimranjit Kaur: Whether it be from fiction or stories from our very own history, we have all heard of times when disease swept through the land, but who would have known that those very stories would become our reality? Waking up has become a new experience for me, as I am now able to clearly hear the birds chirping through the silence on the streets. As nature heals from the years of pollution it has had to endure, I think we should take this as an opportunity to heal ourselves as well.

Harnoor Kehal: I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’ve learned about the power of love. Love sparks hope, and hope sparks change. This year will bring changes to education, healthcare and every aspect of our lives. A positive of this situation is that the earth has had time to heal from the constant damage of pollution and other human activities. Furthermore, although we are isolated by distance, technology has brought us closer than ever and we are able to connect with our family, friends, peers and our teachers.

Rachel Kelly: During these unpredictable times, it’s important to maintain a positive mindset and keep ourselves occupied. I’ve kept myself busy by painting my nails, cooking, working out, and doing my schoolwork. I learned that I love the outdoors! Taking a moment to sit outside in the sun and listen to the birds while they sing is truly a relaxing and enjoyable experience. By joining together and having a positive outlook on this situation, we can all aid in flattening the curve.

Mamona Khan: I learned that you don’t really appreciate something until you lose it (quote by unknown). I’m referring to all those times I’ve refused to go outside. I really regret that decision now. The second and most important thing is that there is always a silver lining. It is true that coronavirus is the cause of physical distancing but it is also the cause of solidarity. “United we stand, divided we fall” (Liberty Song by John Dickinson). After all, we really are all in this together.

Aditi Lad: I’ve realized that even though being stuck indoors and away from friends and other families may be boring, it has a benefit as well. Not only do you help keep COVID-19 from rising, but you get to spend more time and bond with your families more. I was finally getting along with my younger sister, and getting a bit closer with my brother, which has probably helped make this break a bit more fun.

Himanshu Laroiya: I decided I was going to draw every day as I have a little talent for it, but I never realized how fun it was to just pick up a paint brush and a pencil and do what your heart wishes. I  hope to encourage more people to just forget about the problems outside and focus on what you can achieve.

Rida Mahmood: In the current situation, it’s easy to think negatively, but changing our mindset can really be beneficial. This is a great time to work on myself, meditate, spend time with family and do what I’ve always wanted to do. This is also a great time to learn something new about yourself. I never thought I could paint until I tried it, and now it’s one of my favourite hobbies.

Aayat Malik: With schools and shopping centres closed, I have had a lot of time to put towards myself. I love drawing, sketching, and colouring, but recently I have learnt watercolours. I’ve also spent time learning embroidery and making simple patterns. Right now we might feel trapped but it will be over. As Albus Dumbledore said, “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light”.

Prarthana Mall: I always thought I was an introvert but I learned that I am the exact opposite, that I am actually an extrovert! I learned a new language! I learned a little bit of Spanish and it was something that I always wanted to learn! I believe that our world will come out of this situation, stronger than ever before!

Harleen Mann: I have never been so desperate to go to school and never been so frightened about the situation as a whole. The most amazing thing I have done was to create, film and edit a vlog for Digital Arts class. I have never felt more proud and impressed over the quality and the content in my vlog. Quarantining has helped me look after my health, to prevent my seasonal flu from worsening, and ways to develop my physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.

Shraddha Mishra: Coronavirus has given us all time, something we rarely get. When things get better (when, not if), who knows what the future holds? Maybe we will all go back to the lives we had, or maybe things will have changed and hand-sanitizers would still cost way more than they should. But I know one thing for sure, I will not let my own self be a complete stranger to me.

Nilasha Mohan: I decided to join an open-youth mic organization called StayWoke, which aims to promote social and global issues through poetry, spoken word, music production, art, etc. As an ambassador and editor, I’m excited to contribute to such an effort! I realized that I am ambitious, and do not hesitate to let obstacles like the virus strip me of my opportunities.