If you are feeling tired or depressed during this quarantine, you are not alone. It can be easy to contract cabin fever, and the loss of human contact will eventually take a toll, even on the most introverted and independent people. I know that many articles these days are about quarantine and how to manage it. Oftentimes encouraging words feel repetitive and redundant at times. It’s hard to escape the harsh reality that is before us, and words alone do not always provide comfort. The economy may crash, and the abundant fruit of civilization may wither as human fellowship lies broken. Nevertheless, the crisis we face is not the first that has afflicted humanity. Our ancestors faced similar problems.
During the heights of 19th-century industrial society, the air outside certain cities was barely breathable. Smog and soot from the factories choked many laborers who were forced to work under reprehensible conditions. Such was the case in London during the Industrial Revolution, yet our ancestors still had the fortitude and wisdom to learn from these hardships.
Instead of letting despair and depression prevail while you are cooped inside the same room for who knows how long, go outside and walk among the spring-touched wildflowers. It was William Wordsworth who said, “Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher.” Now I’m not saying to go do something crazy or abandon social distancing measures. If you live near Louisiana Tech’s Campus, Hideaway Park is within walking distance. Just remember to wear a mask and maintain a proper distance from people.
Having said that, there are lessons to learn from the natural world that people often take for granted. The society we depend on might fail us. At times, things might seem dead. However, you should look at the flowering pear trees and ripe honey suckles just outside your window that are illuminated by the warm touch of morning’s rays. Just a few months ago, these were dead too but look at them now. Learn from nature. It may be hard, but we’re going to make it through this.