It has been now 2 years after the first case of the coronavirus where we were confined to our homes only going out for essentials, exercise or work. It used to feel like a prison. Like living in an apocalypse. 

We were purged into days of darkness

Days used to bring nothing but sadness where a shadow of death surrounded the earth. It all comes down to those who survive and those who die. 

In April 2020, Italy was suffering. Families of the dead could not even see their loved ones. It was a global nightmare that no one prepared for. 

Quarantine had a great effect on families. We were closer than ever, though some grew further apart. Parents that would work 9-5 are now home 24/7. Children that were bored at school are now bored at home. The whole process drove everyone mad. The pets couldn't even stand us; we were stuck with them 24/7 every day, all day. 

But from it all we gained new hobbies, routines. All experiences we never had or tried out. And now two years later we still live with these. The memories of loved ones are still with us. The hobbies and habits we have now normalised as a consequence of the virus. Life now is normalised but in my opinion will not return back to normal prior to the virus's existence and exposure. 

From time well spent because of the virus there is now no limit to the amount of time spent with family. We are making that worthwhile. All learning the different meanings of family. Whether this allows the healing of families or distance between them. 

Like the saying that I've memorised from childhood what this pandemic has taught me is that "Ohana means family. Family means that no one gets left behind or forgotten"