Mother's Day During the Coronavirus Pandemic

CORONAVIRUS CHRONICLES

-Series Editor, H. Steven Moffic, MD

Sometimes it feels like COVID-19 has changed every part of my life. As I see masked faces walking alone across crowded streets, I wonder if people will ever feel safe again. As challenging as it is to be optimistic during a pandemic, I try to be grateful for what I have. I think of what makes me feel safe during this stressful time. This year, Mother’s Day allows us to thank the mothers who help their children feel protected.

During this time, being able to communicate about the coronavirus is vital to a child feeling safe. Just by looking outside, it is clear that our world has changed. Discussing COVID-19 with my family helped me feel more in control of the situation. We shared what we feel comfortable doing as a family, instead of each of us individually creating our own boundaries.

Our family guidelines were not clear during the beginning of quarantine. Observing my brother socialize with neighbors increased my nervousness. After discussing with my family, we were able to create a solution everyone agreed with. I realized my brother needs social interactions. He agreed to stay six feet apart and always carry hand sanitizer. My mother led this discussion. She knew I needed it to feel safe.

Online learning and homework only occupy a portion of the day. My mother makes time each day to spend with me. While riding our bikes, I see other mothers and their children together. Seeing this loving connection between mothers and children reminds me that COVID-19 is not powerful enough to break that special bond. This Mother’s Day will allow us to thank mothers’ efforts to help their children feel safe.

Ms Goldstein is 15 years old.