Stronger together?
It is hard to let go of your urge to step out when the traveling vlogs make you want to backpack and escape the very next day, when the memories you shared with your friends and loved ones make you want to rush to them and give them a tight hug. The pandemic has been taking a toll on our mental peace. We needed something fresh and raw to look forward to the day ahead, and that turned out to be Global Youth Dialogue (GYD).
Having cross-cultural interactions made Shun Nishijima realize that this pandemic has given him a chance to reflect upon himself, to devote time to understand himself. He shared that his buddies from Nepal are very passionate about their work and career. He revealed that his group had a good laugh when they found out that his buddies had watched old Japanese anime, which he had not.
After the end of the second day of GYD, Kalson Karki felt productive during the lockdown. He could go to sleep with high hopes and anticipation for the learnings, conversations, belongingness the next three days at GYD had to offer. He heard giggles and laughter of everyone in his group as they shared about their childhood, which in turn, was reflected upon his smile.
Sharon Bhattarai found out that her buddies embraced the warmth of their homes and have started to enjoy staying at home. She said, “Making new friends amidst the pandemic has helped her remain optimistic.” Like Nepal, Japan has also witnessed the ill effects of the pandemic in its flourishing tourism industry. The cases have been gradually increasing in Japan, and the citizens must follow certain restrictions and regulations to help contain the spread of the virus.
Miri Okonogi felt relieved upon knowing that her buddies, Sanjina and Grishmah, and their families are safe and healthy and can spend time together. As suggested by one of her buddies, she plans to write a journal to deal with stress and anxiety amidst the pandemic.
Opportunities to communicate and learn can do wonders. We grow stronger together.
