In our latest story, Karis Zeller reflects on lessons from the pandemic in a fictional letter to her children not yet born. Karis blogs regularly at Don’t Dream, Just Travel.

A Letter to my Future Children

by Karis Zeller 

Berlin, May 27, 2020

 

Dear Children,

Hopefully, you will never experience the time we had to stay at home.

Hopefully, you will never experience the days of worry, wondering if you’re ever going to be let out, wondering if you will ever be able to see our friends and family in person again.

Hopefully, your only entertainment won’t be wondering what the skateboard kid across the street will be attempting today, as you watch from your apartment window, unable to join him.

Hopefully, you will never experience the people who took these worst of times and stopped smiling and only looked at others with suspicion on the streets.

Hopefully, you will never experience the loss of freedom that we experienced.

Hopefully, you will learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of our governments.

Hopefully, you will grow up in a world in which people can smile, laugh, and hold hands again.

Hopefully, you will grow up in a world in which hugs are common and handshakes are firm.

Hopefully, you will live in a cleaner, brighter, more caring world.

Hopefully, you will truly appreciate the freedom to travel where you want.

Hopefully, you will take any uncertain time that comes in stride: you will smile, you will encourage, and you will support anyone who needs your help.

Hopefully, you will grow up without worry.

And I hope, dear Children, that you never see a time like this in your lifetime.

With love,

Karis xoxo