Dear Mel

By Melanie Arroyo

Dear Mel,

How are you doing given the fact that it's the last semester of your senior year and you're learning remotely?

Honestly, it's been a challenge. Although I go hybrid sometimes, it isn't the same as getting the crazy senior year we were all expecting to have. It's been a struggle because I also think that I have gotten senioritis and we still have over two months of school left. Even though this year hasn't been what anyone has hoped for, it's hope and faith that pulls me to a much more positive perspective. We shouldn't dwell on things that have negative impacts on us emotionally. It really is important to take things day by day and have the most positive outlook. Seize the day. Do at least one thing that will bring a smile to you...something that will make you feel good. Make a change, a positive one. Don't set out to find the bad in this world; that doesn't do anyone good. Find the good and positive things in life and that is what will come your way.

Dear Mel,

Break it down for me: orange juice or apple juice?

I'm going to answer this the best way I know how. Orange juice. All day. No question. I don't even know how to explain it. Orange juice is a profound drink that is highly superior to apple juice. Apple juice tastes bitter and has little to no flavor. Orange juice is one of the very few drinks where you can drink it with any meal. A good morning breakfast with a cup of OJ...YUM. Chicken and rice with a cup of orange juice...mmmm *chef's kiss.* This is more of an opinionated response...I admit that...so everyone's opinion on this subject will vary. But, orange juice wins in my heart always, always, always.

Dear Mel,

It's been a year since COVID hit the U.S. and everything changed. What do you think you took advantage of the most before this pandemic started?

It does seem pretty crazy to think that just over a year ago we were living our lives with little thought of anything bad ever occurring to us. Who would've known that we'd end up living our teenage years in the midst of a global pandemic. I think the thing I took the most advantage of is the relationships I have with others. I always had that thought of "Oh, well that's okay...I'll just see them next time." Yeah, what a thing to say now. I have a friend who I haven't seen in over 4 months. I miss her a lot and I wish I could see her as often as I used to. I feel like now I do my best to keep in contact as much as possible with the people I love and care about. I never forget to tell them how much they mean to me. I think that's the most important part of this. No matter where or how far someone is, always let them know about their place in your heart. Reach out to others . Do good.