After six hours of mindless Zoom calls, I finally turned off my computer and took a moment to get up and stretch. I had a test the next day, but I just couldn’t bring myself to even glance at my study guide or to do any of my other assignments. I was worn out and frustrated.

My mom heard my computer slam closed and walked into the room. She saw the expression on my face and listened to my complaints about how boring school was, how hard it was to focus and how much work I had left to do.

She helped remind me that transitions are always difficult and will present their own challenges, and that the global pandemic was new for everyone. Nobody had experienced anything like it before, so adjusting takes time. And I shouldn’t beat myself up for that.

My mother’s cool and collected response to my excited outburst gave me a new outlook on the situation. I couldn’t be expected to know what I was doing immediately, but I also couldn’t expect others to know. I realized that all I could control during the height of the pandemic were my own actions, which allowed me to see the situation in a more positive light. 

Patience is a virtue, and we shouldn’t forget that. Returning to school full time will pose a series of challenges for students and teachers, but throughout our return, we must remain understanding. 

Everything from navigating JDS hallways to being in-person everyday will be new to many students. Recognizing that fact brings us one step closer to realizing that it’s normal and okay to forget to complete an assignment or to arrive at school late a few times. 

If a friend is acting unusually towards you, give them the benefit of the doubt. They may be overwhelmed by the transition, fearful of the new delta strain or dealing with something else. Supporting friends, especially during COVID-19, will really benefit their mental health and bring you closer to them. 

Students should be patient with teachers as well. Their transition from fully virtual learning to hybrid and now in-person learning has been difficult. If a teacher messes up during a lesson, recognize that they haven’t taught traditionally in over a year.

Patience has been shown to improve mental health. According to a study by professor Sarah A. Schnitker and professor Robert Emmons, people who are patient are less likely to go through phases of depression and feel fewer negative emotions.

In life, it never hurts to be patient with others. Especially in this hard time, we should be mindful of the experiences that our peers are going through. In addition, it is important to be understanding with yourself to succeed and be happier during this strange school year.