Just as we thought life was returning to normal, everything has gotten worse in just a matter of days. With COVID-19 cases spiking in Harford County and all of Maryland, on November 11, The John Carroll School made the decision to go 100% virtual through Thanksgiving.

Ever since the school year began, people have become more relaxed with COVID restrictions. It’s called “COVID fatigue.” People who are going through COVID fatigue are tired of all the restrictions and regulations. People are going to parties, eating out more often, and going to unnecessary places.

As of Friday, November 13, Maryland’s COVID-19 positivity rate was up to 5.87 percent. This tells us that more and more people are suffering from COVID fatigue and deciding to break the rules.

One big thing we need to keep in mind is Thanksgiving. Of course, we all want to celebrate the holiday with close friends and extended family, but this year may not be the right year to do that.

Governor Larry Hogan held a press conference on the night of November 12. He said, “Family gatherings are the most dangerous thing that we have—according to our contract tracing.”

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges people to celebrate Thanksgiving, but not in the way we normally do. The CDC website states, “The safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving is with people in your household.”

This Thanksgiving be thankful to be with your family. Thanksgiving is all about being thankful for the things that you have. Appreciate the little things, and don’t take anything fore granted. The Patriot staff encourages you and your family to stay home and stay safe.

We have to be patient. We need to make sacrifices. We cannot succumb to “COVID fatigue.” Spending time at home may not be the most entertaining or exciting activity in the world, but it is necessary right now. Normal life will return.

During these hard times, we all need to keep a positive mindset. If we all follow these simple rules, life will slowly but surely return to normal again. So, remember to always wear a mask and limit your interactions with people other than your immediate family.