EMMA SPORTON, 17 Dear whoever you are, It’s like we are all in the same contrary old boat, isn’t it? Since the coronavirus pandemic first became a thing, I haven’t really known which way is supposed to be forwards, and even so, if what is supposed to be forwards is the way I really want to go. I feel so lost at sea. I don’t think anyone can claim the worst experience, though, do you? We’re all probably withstanding some pretty tough emotions that, depending on who we are and what we’ve experienced, will each magnify themselves into something bewilderingly intense, confusing and irritating. Someone who is working at the NHS may be ready to break down into tears over the pressure of work in a world that is distinctly unfamiliar. Equally, a student might be constantly frustrated that communications with their tutors are no longer consistent, that there is such little clarity for what the next year will hold, that their future is still uncertain and there are not many people to talk to. Both are situations that effectively invite negative emotions, and I think it’s important to recognise that there are so many situations across the country, let alone the world, that might be causing similar emotions, despite how large or small they might seem from an alternate perspective.
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