As the nationwide isolation continues I find myself having grown accustomed to the loneliness that fills the void of my day to day routine. The first week back home felt as though the whole world was conspiring against me and my hopes for the upcoming weeks. It is obvious that I was no longer able to see my friends, but at the same time the DOD restricted all unessential military travel; I was supposed to have my boyfriend home for two weeks before he deployed leaving me with at least a year before I can see him next. My parents, who should be noted are already unsupportive of a long-distance relationship, simply said: “build a bridge and get over it.”
So how does one readily build a bridge over a river that moves as quickly as a rug that is pulled out from under you? I found this answer as I thought of all my love ones that couldn’t imagine my life without. Social isolation is my way, and literally everyone else’s, way to help keep those who are important in our lives away from a virus that is described quite literally as ‘going to hell and back.’ While yes this unforeseen circumstance really put a damper on our lives, there’s a larger issue than no more parties or potentially no summer vacations. If you look at the bigger picture where it’s projected that 240,000 US citizens could die from this virus, it is quite easy to build a bridge and get over yourself.
After a week or so of throwing myself a daily pity-party, I got off my high horse and stopped thinking only of myself. While I don’t what to say that our generation’s issues right now are not meaningful, they just can’t be the only thing we keep in mind right now. Overall, I would say that I am melancholy but I quickly snap out of it and try to make the best of the situation.
By: Hannah Kirby
English 110 Spring 2020 10:10-11:00 
I love the way you structured this blog. When you started out talking about how you felt bad for yourself, I think everyone could relate because I know I definitely threw myself a couple pity-parties (not to mention I felt even worse for you, not being able to see your boyfriend for a year. I’m sorry!). But then when you took a step back and told us to look at the bigger picture—all the people we’d be saving by forgetting our own troubles and just staying home—it puts things in perspective very simply, which makes it even more powerful.
-Emma Charles
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Hi Hannah! What drew me into your post was this adorable picture of you and your dog and I am so glad it did! I think we can all relate when it comes to those pity-parties. Your ability to step back and take a look at the larger scope of this problem is refreshing and necessary. I wish you and your boyfriend the best with your long-distance relationship! Stay safe and stay healthy too!
-Jamie Morin
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Hannah, I loved your style of writing which was both captivating and relatable. I really enjoyed the part where you say, “So how does one readily build a bridge over a river that moves as quickly as a rug that is pulled out from under you?” I think the world can relate to that creative question right now, as people are constantly being hit with the changes and hardships that this virus is causing. With the speed and intensity of situations people are being expected to deal with, it seems there are more frequent and faster rivers that everyone is trying to get across. I really enjoyed reading your piece, and I wish the best for your relationship!
-Elizabeth Pohle
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Hi Hannah, I always love hearing/reading your writing, because it’s always written so beautifully. I really liked “So how does one readily build a bridge over a river that moves as quickly as a rug that is pulled out from under you?” because it really encapsulates how many young people are feeling about things that they have had to miss out on due to the pandemic. I really admire how even though there is a bunch of things that didn’t exactly happen in your favor, you’re still thinking of others and staying positive. I hope that when you finally get to see your boyfriend, the extra time makes it all the better.:)
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What’s up Hannah,
I genuinely couldn’t imagine having to deal with your situation with your boyfriend. I know long distance all too well and I know how hard it can be, so I seriously wish you guys the best. I also agree with your idea that this situation is bigger than summer parties or spring vacations. We all have to think of each other during this time, more than ever before. Keep your head up and wishing you good health these next couple of weeks.
-Austin
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