Hope

By Arianna, Age 10

The Coronavirus pandemic transformed my life. During the pandemic, my mother and I stayed in a one bedroom apartment, grasping onto the hope that one day, this pandemic would end. Though we were under-resourced, my mother provided me with all the food I needed. 

We slept in a tiny room, with two twin beds crammed together. Our oak wood table was the perfect size for two. We survived on Eggo waffles, granola bars, frozen pizzas, and Velveeta shells.

I asked my mom, “When can we see grandma, like we used to?” 

My mother shifted her balance, showing her concern, and replied “I don’t know Arianna, I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay mom,” I smiled, holding back tears. I silently wondered, when would things ever go back to the way they used to be? 

Eventually, I realized that I had to accept this new reality, no matter how hard it seemed. Most minutes of the day, we sat in silence, the scent of cactus blossom candles wafting through our unit. This candle’s aroma reminded me of the way things used to be.

Though I have lost many things due to the pandemic I will always hold on to hope.

Though I have lost many things due to the pandemic I will always hold on to hope.