Recreation is more important than I thought — just one more thing that I’ve been taking advantage of throughout my life.
Despite it not having a special place in my heart before the pandemic struck, when I think back, so many memories include recreational activities that are no longer available, like ice skating and swimming at Brennan Park.
These were just mundane experiences that didn’t mean much to me before.
Then there are the beaches and parks that have been closed.
My family and I drove up to the gated entrance at Alice Lake to go for a walk, but we were turned around by a park ranger.
I remember jumping into the water, feeling the sun on my face and the sand beneath my feet.
I miss it more than I could have imagined.
I guess it’s true, you don’t really miss something until it’s gone.
The spread of COVID-19, means more closures, bans, and regulations need to be put in place. With the campfire ban, I was prevented from enjoying one of the few normal experiences I have left with the people I love.
Not having access to certain things, I feel, takes away a form of choice and control. I can’t choose to go to the lake, or the pool, or ice skating. It feels like my world is shrinking with the growth of the pandemic outside.
I feel like my life is boring. Despite the negative effects all this has on me, my family, and my friends, I know that this is necessary, and I’m glad that those who are making these decisions are looking out for our health and safety. But even though this might not be a huge deal in the spectrum of what’s happening in the world, it’s a huge deal in the spectrum of my life.
Emily Rice
Grade 11, Squamish
