The Truth Untold

By Ellie, age 9

I remember that day like it was yesterday. It was a beautiful spring day in March as the teacher in second grade gathered us on the rug. She was busy explaining the COVID-19 news to the class. “The school would probably shut down for a week or two, just because of the situation that is occurring right now.”  The teacher said. My shoulders slumped, with sadness filling up my face and heart. I noticed that if the situation would have gotten worse,  it would be the last day I could hug my friends. “It would only be a week. Not months!” My friends reassured me. 

“Not months, just a week, I understand.” A fake smile came up, with the comfort not reaching my body. 

2 MONTHS later…….

“Mom, is the COVID-19 Pandemic ever going to cease?” I asked on the day of my birthday. “I don’t know honey, just make a wish.” She responded. 

I thought of everything I wanted. I finally thought of a desire. “I hope for this pandemic to end.” 

I blew out my candles as the smoke rised up, like all the Earth’s problems and fears vanishing into thin air.

I blew out my candles as the smoke rised up, like all the Earth’s problems and fears vanishing into thin air.