This is the second of three posts by teens in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, which withholds their last names. Perspectives on a disrupted spring are excerpted with permission from the nonprofit, which has eight clubs for ages 6-18. Links to the first essay and a membership page are at the end
By Helen [age 13]
I'm an introvert who enjoyed a little social interaction. With that cut off, I feel really separated from the real world.
Waking up and doing the same thing over and over within my house gets boring. But I guess if it means I play a part in the ending of Covid-19, I'll do what I can.
I try not to worry much when thinking of Covid-19, but one fear always creeps in. My mom works two jobs, at a plant and Dollar Tree. Though the plant is closed, she still has to go to Dollar Tree since it is an essential store.
Knowing she deals with a lot of people, I know there is a fair chance she can come in contact with Covid-19 but I always try to wash that fear away because I know she is taking the precautions to prevent the germs.
Boys & Girls Clubs has addressed a lot of my fears by providing information and resources to our families. They also have provided a form of social interaction that was desperately needed through the Virtual Club [a two-hour Zoom activity each weekday].
Knowing that in this time of crisis that my club is still trying to make our lives somewhat normal is amazing and I thank them for thinking of us.
► First in series: 'How long will my life be on pause?'
► Next: 'This disconnect from people is heartbreaking'
► Join a club: Locations (for when they reopen) | $50 yearly membership includes the Virtual Club