Isn’t it strange to think of this pandemic as a blessing in disguise? We have watched how lives have been affected by this pandemic. For me, it was a time to reflect on myself and to become a better person. Being able to wake up each morning knowing I had a job and a career I wanted to pursue was comforting. I thought everything would go uphill from here.

Then COVID-19 happened, borders were closing and jobs were lost. Working with volunteers meant that my job would be badly affected. I thought staying at home would be fun because it meant not having to wake up early, no more deadlines to meet, and no more organizing programs for volunteers.

It later took a toll on me. Depression and anxiety started to kick in. I felt useless and it felt like there was nothing I could do. Some days I would wake up and just start crying. I later found the courage to work on myself, to become a better person, and to rid myself of these feelings. While people were working on ways to earn an income, here I was working on myself to become a better version of myself. I stand grateful for the unseen opportunity that this pandemic has given me to work on myself, to learn to love myself.

Not only has this pandemic helped me become a better me, but it also opened a door for another work opportunity. This pandemic has very sadly and tragically taken many lives. I feel humbled that it has blessed me and brought my loved ones much closer to each other.