Going through the pandemic as an adult was surreal. The isolation and stress I felt on a daily basis for months wore me down. Simple tasks such as getting groceries became daunting. I was risking not only my life but the lives of others around me. Now that I am on the other side of it, I am realizing how lucky I am that I was not affected by the pandemic during my formative adolescent years. This painting depicts youthful individuals interacting at a lively gathering on a beach under the stars. I was inspired by the social events I had experienced and relationships I had formed in my teen years. As we move forward, we’re realizing the toll the pandemic has taken on our youth. Many have been deprived of these valuable experiences. One person gazes off into the distance, contemplating the unknown. In much the same way, we are left contemplating what the lasting effects will be on our next generation.