There is a lot going on in the world right now resulting in things and feelings that some of us never really thought we would experience. This is causing a lot of us to experience loss of things we have been looking forward to for.. who knows how long. Whether you're a senior in high school, a college student, a parent, or anyone really. Here is how I am coping with the losses that I have experienced in the past couple of months due to COVID-19.

I came into the year 2020 very optimistic and hoping for a year like 2019 which just so happened to be one of the best years that I have had in quite a while. 2020 was going to bring me a year full of challenges including finally taking classes geared toward my major in hospitality, taking on the role of being a co-chair for the Live Entertainment committee of Student Activities Council, starting my training to become a shift lead at my job Chick-Fil-A, and so much more. I was so ready to come toward these challenges head first but suddenly, the rug was pulled out from underneath me.

Something very important when it comes to coping with these losses is to remember your blessing you have sitting in front of you right now which could be something as simple as having food in the house or a family that loves and cares for you. On top of counting your blessings despite everything going on, also try and look toward the future. Yes, I know that right now the future is uncertain but if things were to go back to normal by June, what would your summer look like? What are you most looking forward to about school in the fall? Think about all the good things that will more than likely happen rather than dwelling on your losses while laying in bed.

Another thing that as helped me a lot with my losses is different forms of distractions. One of those distractions for me included joining the Missouri State community of Odyssey and I have loved my short time here so much already! Take up a new hobby, exercise, deep clean your room, journal, clean out your phone and social medias, there are a lot of things you can do during this time to make yourself healthier and happier come time to leave the house and finally hang out with friends! I have been talking with my friend group about everything we're going to do the day/night we can finally start going out again and I also learned how to make a couple of things at home that I normally wouldn't have the time to do with my busy college student schedule!

Recently I have also been finding a lot of different resources showing me ways to cure boredom or even access things that might not normally be free (and on top of that, did y'all know Club Penguin is back? ;) you're welcome). These things can range from free cooking classes, to free work out classes, and so much more.

As hard as things are right now and as much as they may suck, try not to dwell on the past and all of the losses you are enduring, instead take up a new hobby, smile, and think about the future. We still have a lot ahead of us and remembering that is so important in a time of darkness.

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10