04 Oct Studying from home during the Covid-lockdown
In February of this year (2020), I went back home to spend my semester holidays with my family in Luxembourg, planning on going back to university in April to continue my studies. So, when the Covid-lockdown was implemented in March, I was at home with my family. When university classes started again, I logged in online, sat down at my desk and started watching lots of videos of my lectures and classes. It felt very weird, as I couldn’t see or meet anyone else, I was studying with; so I felt quite alone. Thankfully, I was not stuck in my small dorm room in Tübingen, but I was staying safe with my family in our big house in Luxembourg, with enough space to move around and a good internet connection. Our relationships were deepened since we were all spending so much time around each other.
The whole world came to a screeching halt, everyone had to slow down. The slower pace and the quietness were restful but different. I had many video calls with friends all over the world, which gave us a great chance to reconnect. However, I really had to put in the effort to organize the calls before which I felt lonely and disconnected. It was also hard to keep in touch with my new friends in Tübingen, as I was not able to see them as regularly as I would have otherwise.
I had a lot of time on my hands, which I also was able to use to be creative. I’ve always loved crafting and was finally able to tackle some of those projects that were waiting for “when I had some time”. On the other hand, since I didn’t need to be anywhere at 8 am, I was able to take my time in the morning during my quiet time. I read numerous Christian books but also just spent time reading in God’s word, reflecting and worshiping. I also journaled more than usual, which helped me sort through some of the thoughts buzzing through my head.
Looking back at those journal entries, I can see how God really carried me through and was simply by my side each step of the way. If I was having a pity-party with me, myself, and I because I felt lonely, the Holy Spirit reminded me that I wasn’t the only one in lockdown. If I felt overwhelmed by the amount of work that I had to complete by the end of the semester, he reminded me to tackle one day after the other. If I started feeling lonely and single (after watching too many romantic comedies…), he reminded me that God is the only one who can fulfill me and that when and if the time comes, he will let me know. I’ve learned not to try and plan out everything for the next 5 years since I don’t know what else might still happen. However, I am at peace knowing that I’m in my heavenly Father’s hands, no matter what ends up happening.
THE AUTHOR
JORDAN MILLS
About me: My name is Jordan, I am 20 years old and studying medicine in Tübingen, Germany. I grew up in Luxembourg within a loving Christian family and a nurturing church environment.
Contact me: misscordelia42@gmail.com