Echoes of Normalcy: Acquaintances and Friends Gathered

Social gatherings were prohibited for a while due to the CoViD-19 pandemic. The possibility of going back to our old ways was more uncertain than ever, which caused unending anxiety in both children and adults. Not all hope is lost, though. With the vast majority of people immunized and CoViD-19 regulations loosening, there are now hints of normalcy returning to our lives. Along with this development, schools across the nation have begun to allow for face-to-face instruction.

The University of Luzon hosted a gathering to welcome both new and returning students that aimed to revive the old-school social scene. A mass was held, the Tiger Walk was carried out, and various stalls were set up by students from the various colleges in the morning. The event’s centerpiece finally showed up in the afternoon. Thanks to the sponsorship by TNT (under Smart Communications), local band Nobita known for songs like “Ikaw Lang” and “Unang Sayaw,” played for the audience. It was immediately apparent that this was a much-needed event for the students who had spent the majority of the previous few years cooped up in their homes.

Even though there is still a long way to go before we can return to the good old days—and it may not even be possible anymore—people will always find a way to hold onto hope. And in the presence of friends and peers, that hope shines most brightly, as shown by the shared smiles and laughter.