This is the last 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 earlier installments and a membership link are at the end.
By Myles
Being a high school senior during this time has really been difficult. Milestones for a graduate -- senior pinning, prom, graduation, senior picnic, senior skip da, and open houses -- are all canceled or postponed because of the virus. Life is changing for me not only because of the threat, but because of the lack of human interaction.
This is my last year being around people I have spent four years watching grow and growing with -- friends who have become family, friends and people who I love that I cannot dap up or hug or have face-to-face interaction or conversation. This disconnect from people is heartbreaking and hard, to say the least.
"I cannot dap up or hug or have face-to-face interaction." (Photo" Boys & Girls Ckubs of Southeastern Michigan)
This year is supposed to be the year where I live it out with these people who are so close to me. I don’t know when I will see these friends again after I graduate. But I cannot say that I am angry that this is happening; there probably would have been more cases of positive Covid-19 diagnoses had facilities been open and had there not been such a big disconnect.
Having an in-law that has contracted the virus, I have really become more fearful of this pandemic. It has really made me think about the statewide shelter-in-place order and how important it is to keep to yourself to ensure the safety of myself and others.
However, the Dick and Sandy Dauch Club has made social distancing and the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order a lot easier to deal with. Its virtual club lets members stay interested in something and lets employees still receive their pay. They remain fully committed to their number one goal -- serving the community, which I appreciate.
► Earlier student diaries: 'How long will my life be on pause?' | 'I'll do what I can,' though staying home 'gets boring'
► Join a club: Locations (for when they reopen) | $50 yearly membership includes the Virtual Club
