We are in this together! Life is beautiful, life is full of unexpected events and adventures. I, a girl with a glittering world inside, have always been eager to experience novelty and adventure. Education has always been a matter of paramount importance for me. My mother still remembers one both funny and scary situation which happened when I was 4 years old. One day, she could not find me anywhere in the house and searched for me everywhere worrying that something bad happened to me. After day-long unsuccessful attempts to find me, a teacher from our local school brought me home saying that I went to school and asked everyone to give me books to read because I want to study… This strong passion for education led me to apply for Global Undergraduate Program in 2019 and I was selected as one of the six finalists from Uzbekistan to study in US educational institutions as result of my hard work and perseverance as a leader. Why did I start my story from this? Because what I mainly want to write about starts from exactly this journey. I flew for thousands of kilometers from Uzbekistan to the USA and arrived at Boston Logan Airport in the US in January 16th, 2020. From there, our advisor took us to Keene State College, which is situated in New Hampshire, US. This place will be saved in my memory as one of the dearest and most valuable places in the world. At first, everything seemed perfect. I loved the atmosphere, made friends with new people, started travelling and exploring amazing destinations and, most surprisingly, met my future husband there for the first time. When March came, there was an announcement that the Spring Break would begin soon. And we started planning to travel to California with friends! True American atmosphere, Hollywood, Los-Angeles, San Francisco… All of these places were in my bucket list! But… Scary things started to happen when we began travelling. I received an email from my academic advisor strongly recommending to cancel my flight and not travel to California as it is now a red zone for a new, dangerous so-called “Coronavirus”. Unfortunately, I got that email when I was sitting in the airplane which was about to depart, so I stayed. Hoping that this disease is not as serious as they are saying, I tried to avoid negative thoughts. However, when I arrived in LA, I witnessed how things turned out to be more different than I expected. Almost all public places that we wanted to visit were closed, there was a mask requirement everywhere, but we could not find a single mask at any stores or pharmacies. We were able to see some of the planned destinations, but with a big worry that we might get infected with COVID. As an international student, who is in the US for the first time, with no family members or relatives, I was worried to death. What if I get infected? What if I become seriously ill? What if I will not be able to get back home? Who will take care of me? What will my mother do? What should I do now? Even in such a tense situation, we were trying to have fun with friends, playing indoor games, cooking different meals, watching TV… Grocery stores had almost nothing to buy as they ran out of products, there was frustrating news about thousands of people dying from COVID every day. After a week, when we were planning to go back to the college campus, I received another scary email which said that we were not allowed in campus as it was about to be closed and there would be online study mode for the rest of the semester. We had to go back to our home, which is situated in Uzbekistan in my case. Unfortunately, there were no flights to Uzbekistan at that time as the airport was closed due to COVID19. As a scholarship student, I was neither working nor receiving money from my parents, so I was not able to provide myself with a housing and other necessities till I would be able to fly back home. I am more than grateful for Keene State College for letting me in the campus even though it was not allowed and for the Department of State for providing me with a stipend in such hard times. Keene State College taught me how it feels like to really “feel like home”. Besides providing me with a cozy place to live, they united me with other five international students who also were not able to go back to their countries. We would go hiking, travel around the town, go biking and have fun. I was blessed to get both emotional and financial support which made me feel special and important. We used to wear a special cloth mask which has an interesting writing: “Owls United”. Owl is the symbol of Keene State College. I am so proud to be an Owl and a part of that community. They truly helped me feel safer and stronger against COVID19. For another extra 3 months, I waited for a charter flight from US to Uzbekistan. During that time, they always were with me together. Yes, we were in this together! #writingcontest #writing #contest

Onward together, our mutual loneliness our bond Our secrets safe with the lampposts, our loyal sentinels Trees curtsy and drop confetti that others mistake for leaves When hearts hold hands, obstacles dissolve into puddles Life churns with ease Like a walk in the park

“Massive Bushfires”, “Veronica and Dorian storms”, “Floods and Inundation”, “The threat of Nuclear War”: these are all 2019 headlines of the international mass media. Clearly, the number of natural disasters has been rising, but the situation in the international political arena has also been hyper charging (heating up). Demonstrating military, political and economic capabilities, declaring sanctions, closing consulates and viewing these actions as a means to an end, to achieve domination, economic independence and prosperity. All of these news items, however, were firmly eclipsed by the emergence of coronavirus (Covid-19) at the end of 2019. It is no secret that the very first appearance of this virus was in China, to be more precise in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province. It changed everything from leading more and more people to obesity to the way we visit our grandparents (using those devices with the screen). The initial hypothesis of the cause of coronavirus was linked to the genome of bats. Nonetheless, it is still not apparent what the source of the very first case was. Nevertheless, there are several main conjectures in the air, ranging from the bats and bananas to the conspiracy theories. “Everything happens for a reason”. When you think about this statement, it becomes horrible and formidable. But still it is impossible to reject and forget this statement. Are not all these present challenges associated with coronavirus linked with people's boundless belief in their strength? The majority of the twenty first century's generations started to hugely rely on modern technologies and mistakenly believe that they are the creators of the nature and of the whole world itself, forgetting about God. In addition, moral decadence can be traced in correlation with the loss of traditional values. Some may argue that they are atheists and there is no link between these phenomena, a theory which, like any, has the right to exist as long as there are those who believe in it. Considering the ideas listed above I believe that one of the ways to beat this virus in the present moment is to encourage people to lend a hand to each other. I personally hope and believe that we can overcome all these difficulties and obstacles. But the real question is, “what is the price of a such victory?”. This ailment has already claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands people regardless of who is acting as a bulwark against its spread. Undoubtedly, the lion's share of onus is on the shoulders of doctors and medical staff, and they can be fairly considered as heroes. The only action that we can take at this moment to support these heroes is to abide by the Government guidelines. In addition, being more kind, polite, sincere and open to collaboration, especially now when all have to unite, can also be considered as a retaliation against the virus. In reality, of course, this is a vast oversimplification of the issue. However, the united people with the same, good purpose is a massive power, far stronger than those who are alone. By way of conclusion, I understand that this is clearly a problem of such complexity that no solution is likely in one day. However, it is by no means insurmountable, and I am convinced that we can stem the tide of this virus. Admittedly, this piece of writing is not about to change something in a global scale, but the reader that looks through this work may think over the ideas listed here. Be nice, bring love during these unprecedented times and the virus will be overwhelmed by the amount of honour that Earthmen possess.

I had my first best friend when I was in preschool. We were as thick as thieves, so it made sense when we went to the same junior school. She left just before fourth grade when her family relocated to South Africa. I was sad, as one would be after four amazing years of friendship had been cut short. Fourth grade a new girl game to our school and she became my new best friend, until she decided to join the cool girl squad. That was the first heartbreak I experienced in my life. Fifth grade brought yet another new girl, and yet again she became my new best friend. I experienced my second heartbreak when she left me for the cool girls. That was when I decided I would never have a best friend again. It hurt too much when they left. High school I had a few friends but we drifted apart when we graduated. I became a bit of a loner, until college came along. I went to a foreign country, where I was somewhat of a celebrity. I was the only person there from my country, so everyone was fascinated with me. In spite of all the attention, I found myself with just acquaintances and no true friends. Even though I didn't want to admit it, I was yearning for true friendship and companionship. The last time I had really felt connected to another human being who wasn't a part of my family was when I was in junior school. Surrounded by people, I found myself alone and lonely. Second semester I was allocated a roommate who was from the same country as me. I didn't know how to feel about someone else from home, but my worries were soon put to rest. Tina and I got along splendidly. She was like an extension of myself. She understood me, and sometimes we would say the same thing at the same time. I'd finally found a friend and I was just ecstatic. When we started second year, Tina went to school before me. When I arrived, she had made friends with two guys who were a year below us. I was a bit sceptical about the guys. They were spending a lot of time with Tina and I didn't like it. I had finally found myself a real friend and these guys were threatening to ruin my happiness. I know I was being childish, but I told myself two is company but four is a mob. What I didn't expect was me warming up to the two guys, Gavin and Peter. They were always joking around and laughing, and I couldn't stop myself from laughing along. I found myself looking forward to their visits and actually enjoying their company. We were all alike yet so different. Gavin was the goofball, the one you could always rely on, while Peter was the lady's man who was surprisingly very sweet. Tina was the social bunny, easy to talk to at a party, and then there was me, the quiet but sarcastic one. In spite of the differences, it felt like I had known them in a previous life. We became a squad, a crew, a tribe, but above all, we became a family. I met Tina, Peter and Gavin a little over three years ago, and we are still friends to date. My sister always says they are my best friends, but I always say I don't do best friends. I won't admit it to her, but I found not one, but three best friends. The broken heart I didn't realise I was nursing for more than ten years was finally healed when I met my three friends. Thanks to our friendship, I have been able to open up to other people and actually let them in to my life. I can say with confidence my friendship with my three best friends has brought growth for me. I have learnt to trust again, and to just take a leap of faith when meeting new people. I now have a healthy number of friends, and even a guy I am seeing. Right now the world is resting, and we are all at home in different countries, but for the four of us it is as if we are in the same place. We do not talk daily, we don't even talk weekly, but whenever we do, it's as if we never stopped talking. Gavin messages me to discuss novels we've recently read, or to review stories we've written. Peter is less available on social media, but he always makes an effort to call at least once per week or fortnight. Whenever I receive a text from Tina, I know something saucy has happened, and a juicy story is coming my way. Three years ago I met three total strangers who brought light into my life. They showed me that I can cope on my own, but having companionship can make life's moments more fulfilling. We have become friends, kindred spirits that have a way of always finding each other.

It all started on a very normal day of quarantine. I was sitting around and doing what I had been doing for the past few weeks. Sleeping, eating, reading, and watching TV. Nothing very productive or demanding. Then my sewing teacher sent me a link for a tutorial and a blog post about masks. The blog post asked for people to make masks and donate them to our local medical facilities because they were quickly running out. My sewing teacher had the idea for us to make a few dozen masks and donate them. It started small. My mom started asking around on Facebook if anyone had any elastic that we could buy. That didn't work out in the way we were hoping. Eventually, my mom ordered some on Amazon. I thought would be the end of it. But it wasn't. My mom's posts caught the attention of someone with a very harebrained idea. This person had the idea to start a movement. This idea was called "Operation Come Together". I was the first person to make a mask for Operation Come Together. From then on it grew and grew into something amazing. It astounded me to see how many people came together to help stop the spread of COVID-19. There were countless volunteers and even more donations. All the while I made masks. In the beginning, the need was so great that I ended up sitting at my sewing machine for three days almost non-stop. I only took breaks for food, the bathroom, and sleep. It was exhausting and got a little monotonous, but it was worth it. After that, I slowed down. I worked on masks for a few hours a day. Eventually, I started to go to the headquarters of Operation Come Together with my mom. I went a few times, but I didn't go very often. It was very risky because my little brother is immune-compromised. After a few visits, I stayed at home to make masks. After about a month had passed the mask shortage in our area was curved and the factories had enough time to make and send more out. This was at the very beginning of quarantine. Now, almost five months into quarantine, I only make masks occasionally when someone needs them. Even though the rush has stopped, COVID-19 is still a pressing issue for all of our daily lives. It takes our loved ones, cancelled school, and has caused many of our family members to lose their jobs. It is a scary time that we live in. But I believe that as long as people are willing to help and to stand by those who need it, we will get through this.

I was horrified by this incident. “No one cares for me,” shouted a 59-year-old woman in front of the Finance Ministry on April 27. In protest, she swallowed a handful of pink pellets from a rodenticide bait pack, collapsed before rushed to a hospital. She was clearly distressed after failing to get a monthly stipend of 5,000 baht or around US$ 161, the Thai government's cash aid given for three months to informal workers hardest hit by the COVID-19 outbreak. To curb the pandemic, the government locked down cities, shut down businesses, and imposed curfew and travel restrictions. Consequently, many, left unemployed, are struggling to put food on the table, with the poor and needy feeling frustration, despair and anger. Then people's little hope was reignited by the “Pantry of Sharing,” installed by “Little Brick,” a group of volunteers. The group first posted a video clip, asking what Thai people thought if the country could have pantries stocked with food for anyone. Many expressed their opinions. “Everything would be gone, the cupboard included.” “All food items would be taken home in a sack!” “The cupboard would be left empty.” “The answer is ‘impossible.' People are selfish with no conscience.” “Try the idea to find out.” “I wish we could have the pantry. I'm a rural man. We share what we have.” “Don't despair if you have no food. Every time you come across this pantry; you know you can take something home for your children. That'll bring happiness.” “We could help our fellow beings. Sharing with others brings you peace of mind.” “Donors are willing to give and recipients can fill their stomach with something from the pantry. So, both will be happy.” The first five Pantries of Sharing were set up by the group to alleviate the plight of those suffering hardship caused by government measures. This humanitarian act was inspired by the Little Free Pantry, started in the United States. The Pantry of Sharing is a beautiful initiative. Those who can afford to give, fill the pantry with nonperishable foods while people facing penury can come by and take everything they need to get through each day of poverty. Some even include notepads for people to write words of appreciation and encouragement to each other. Anyone can set up the Pantry of Sharing in their community. The idea has caught on rapidly. For Thais, sharing with those suffering is a way of making merit. Now there are community pantries in all 77 provinces. Local newspapers reported several stories of less fortunate people benefiting from these community pantries. A middle-aged mother and her 11-year-old son with special needs went several times a day to the Pantry of Sharing in the northern province of Phayao to find food. The mother could not work well because she was beset with diseases. They hardly had enough money to get by and sometimes had to go without food. These pantries are great. Old people, scavengers and the poor can come and get things here without queuing up in long lines to get free food offered by charitable organizations and individuals. One old uncle was widely admired by many social media users. He came to open the cupboard in front of Thonburi-Uthong Hospital and picked up only one carton of milk. He said only one carton of milk made him full and took nothing else to leave and share the rest for others to partake of. He was praised for being considerate and not opportunistic. Poor as he was, he was generous. Uncle Oud was from Ayutthaya Province. Homeless and without relatives, he wandered around in U Thong district, Suphan Buri province, to scavenge discarded materials for a living. Sadly, on May 18, Uncle Oud died peacefully from tuberculosis. In these challenging times, it is necessary for people to show their kindness and sympathy. That is why the pantries, known in Thai as “the cupboard that shares happiness,” are always replenished. However, this unattended food sharing scheme is still very new here. In reality, some selfish people abused the public's goodwill, raided pantries, took away all the items, hoarded the food, and worst, resold the stolen donations. Although people emptying a cupboard should be disapproved of, we may not really know what these people have gone through during lockdown. The motives of many cases are linked to rising poverty and food shortages. The reckless and selfish behavior may show just how the coronavirus pandemic and poor state support have made some people so desperate and insecure. In spite of the abuses being committed by some people, we should not lose hope in this food bank idea. A sense of giving should not be diminished just because our world also has inconsiderate people. Let us overlook those who are greedy. Our noble goal is to prevent destitute people from going hungry! During times of sickness and anxiety like these, it touches my heart and lifts my spirits when people help each other out. COVID-19: We will get through this TOGETHER.

I would like you to read my first story and listen to my past experience, despite all i went through in the hands of my step mum, i have forgiven her, i love her so much, i still buy gifts for her. who ever that has ever hurt you, forgive and live a happy life. Thank you

e·qual·i·ty /əˈkwälədē/ Noun The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities. Equality. Equality is the balance of two beings no matter race, gender, sexuality, or beliefs. Equality contributes to and displays the genuine treatment everyone deserves no matter the status. The simple word means everything in relationships, relationships as simple as stranger and stranger. However, equality is beginning to grow into just a word, when in reality, the community's respect and future depends on equality. Inequality is affecting future generations and today's individuals. Separation, judging, and disadvantages, three main types of inequality. What are these examples of inequality and how are they majorly affecting our societies? Separation is an example of inequality that is majorly affecting individuals everyday. Separation could be secluding someone for whatever reason society finds a reason to. Separation includes excluding an individual or group or viewing your race, religion, sexuality, or gender as higher than another. People seclude others with differentiating lifestyles, feeling as if there is a barrier if they do not also practice the same. Examples of separation is often influenced on children; therefore teaching the future members of society that inequality is acceptable. Separation is a form of inequality affecting many as people will find reasoning in any differences to seclude or ‘seperate'. Judging is also a key example of inequality that individuals suffer from every day. Judging is almost targeted towards anyone or anything that could make them/it specifically different, such as gender or race. Judging comes in many forms and unfortunately is targeted SPECIFICALLY to those differentiating in any aspect. One could be looking at someone, even a stranger, and having the immediate thought to comment on their race or appearance in the thought that they're automatically the inferior or the ‘lesser person'. Judging may seem harmless due to its common nature, however it is unjust and directed solely to those who may be different. Disadvantages, lastly, is a result of inequality that widespreadly appears everyday at schools, offices, etc. Due to inequality, one of a particular race or gender can't experience or participate in certain activities. Society accepts this practice everyday in offices, homes, and schools, illustrating how fluent inequality is becoming. Disadvantages could include not receiving bonuses or attention. It also includes not receiving the same levels of respect, only because an individual differs in status. Inequality creates disadvantages for many everyday solely for the fact they're different. As inequality becomes increasingly more common, society must ask what we can do to overcome separation, judging, and disadvantages. Together, society should see everyone on the same level with equal opportunities and respect. Overcoming inequality will strengthen relationships as simple as stranger and stranger and help the world grow as one, equally.