Summary

The author reflects on personal growth and rediscovery of self through the quarantine period, which has allowed them to embrace their introverted nature and focus on creative passions.

Abstract

The article titled "Why I Love Quarantine" delves into the author's introspective journey during the quarantine period. Initially perceived as a social butterfly, the author reveals a history of social awkwardness and a preference for solitude, which was often misunderstood. The quarantine has provided the author with the opportunity to reconnect with their inner self, characterized by creativity and a love for animals, and to distance themselves from societal pressures to conform. This time has been transformative, leading to personal acceptance, the pursuit of artistic endeavors, and the sharing of their true self through writing and creative partnerships. The author emphasizes the importance of living authentically and encourages others to reject societal expectations in favor of personal fulfillment.

Opinions

The author believes that their true personality, which is more reclusive and creative, is not widely accepted in society outside of artistic circles.
They have spent years mastering the art of social interaction to fit in, developing a 'second skin' that masks their genuine self.
The quarantine has been a positive experience, allowing the author to spend quality time with themselves and their partner, and to invest in their shared creative interests such as filmmaking and photography.
The author feels that society's predetermined parameters for behavior can lead to unhappiness and suggests that individuals should live the life they choose if they have the means to do so.
They express no guilt for their introverted lifestyle during quarantine, which includes creating art, spending time with loved ones, and daydreaming.
The author values the opportunity to share their authentic self through their artistic work and writing, and they invite readers to get to know them better by engaging with their creative output.

Why I Love Quarantine.

What this time has given me and how it has changed my view of acceptable social behaviour.

Lusaje Photography-Canon 2000D-Cork, Ireland

To the outside observer, you may see me as someone who loves to socialize and to live an active life, but this is only a part of who I am, a side of me I haven’t had to indulge in during quarantine.

When I was a child, I used to be very socially awkward. I didn’t know how to interact with other people and always felt like an outsider. I never thought there was something wrong with me until I saw the judgment in their eyes, the snickering when I could walk into a room and the forced discomfort they would display when speaking to me.

They made me question what I couldn’t see. Why did I love my own company, but so few shared this sentiment? For as long as I can remember I have never been bored when I’m spending time with myself, I have always been creative and have always enjoyed my time with animals much more than humans. You’d think I’d been raised by wolves, but really I just appreciate the kindness and present nature these beasts provide. To be honest, a lot of the time my own thoughts and dreams are more alluring than trying to play my part in society.

Most of my school reports would state: “Celine is bright and has a lot of potential, but spends too much time daydreaming. She does very well when she is not away with the fairies.” Or some quaint variation of these words.

There are few places my true person is appreciated outside of artistic tasks and environments, so I dedicated myself to finding the key to fitting in and functioning fine in society. I didn’t want to be on the outside anymore, as this leaves you no worth, not even worthiness of kindness sometimes. I would study the people I admired, prepare responses to predictable questions and obsess over how to seem confident and glide through societal tasks and expectations effortlessly, making it look as easy and impressive as a figure skater.

After 15 years, give or take, I’ve gotten rather good at it. It’s like a second skin I slide into when I leave the safety of my home, unnoticeable but protecting me perfectly within. I haven’t had any complaints thus far, People seem to love this version of me, kind and easy-going, a good listener who always offers friendly banter and is constantly available, the ideal citizen.

The people in my closest circle know the inner skin version of me, the reclusive, a little awkward and very thoughtful version of myself that I’ve been enjoying a lot more during the quarantine. I have been spending much more time at home these past few months than I can remember ever doing in my grown-up life (after all, we haven’t had a choice right?) I’ve had the time and energy to finally spend with myself, doing those creative things that used to fill my days with so much joy as a child.

I never felt that I lacked anything in my childhood. I have come to realise that my obsession with becoming a pawn in this predisposed society is what has caused me unhappiness for so many years, disregarding the creative outlets that have always come to me so naturally and unconditionally.

These past few months have been the most wonderful time for me, I’ve rested, I’ve saved money, I’ve spent much-needed quality time with my partner and we’ve even invested in our creative partnership. We’ve started to realise those dreamy talks of filmmaking and photography, it’s our reality now.

I started to write during quarantine, well I’ve always written, but I’ve started to write regularly for a publication (ILLUMINATION), and am sharing my words with my social network, pieces that previously would have never left the comfort of my soul.

Most importantly, I don’t feel bad about it. I am no longer harboring any guilt for spending my time at home. Creating art, laughing with my boyfriend or dreaming myself away to some distant universe.

I’ve come to know that I’m not harming anyone with my absence, and if you give me some space you may even get the opportunity to know the real me, beneath the second skin, exposed through my artistic work.

Everyone should live the life of their choosing, if the means permit it.

Say no to the predetermined parameters you’re told to exist within.

Quarantine has filled a void within me that has been tormenting me for more than half of my life. I feel as though I am finally capable of living every day of my life with joy because I have rediscovered that which brings me unconditional happiness, that which brings me contentment.

So, if you’re curious to get to know another side of me, keep reading. I promise to keep sharing if you’ll allow me the space and time to do so.