CORONAVIRUS – THE SILVER LINING

The world is definitely a different place today as compared to three months ago as we all grapple with the unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although daily doses of bad news can be overwhelming, we still have the choice to focus on hope, positivity and even optimism.

Take for instance, the environment. Levels of pollution are rapidly dropping across continents and waters are clearer than ever before – giving us an opportunity to reset the economy in a way that is mindful to climate change. The virus is teaching an important lesson on how detrimental the destruction of the ecosystem is on human life, and we should hope to emerge as more responsible global citizens.

Another incredible outcome has been the way humanity has come together; many governments have proactively launched benefits and are protecting their citizens, philanthropists donating money, scientists work tirelessly to find a cure, doctors, nurses and other front-line workers dedicated to their unshakable oath, and neighbours and communities are looking out for each other like family.

Peer-to-peer help, be it financial or emotional, is another encouraging trend that is being observed on social media. Every individual has been struggling in his or her own way, and it is uplifting to know that the best of humanity stands united.

We can also seize this opportunity to pursue our interests while we have extra time at home — read that book, learn that instrument or language, start that fitness routine, or simply spend time with family. There are abundant resources online and several learning platforms that are offering free or discounted e-learning opportunities that provide an incredible opportunity to learn something new or upgrade a skill.

As more physical barriers have been put in place, the other boundaries dividing us as people have blurred. We are now on a journey together and unity and solidarity is what is getting us through. We have demonstrated strength and overcome health crises in the past; SARS in 2002, and MERS in 2012, which had a whopping case fatality rate of 34 percent as compared to 3-4 percent of COVID-19. More than half the world’s population is still in lockdown, but in the coming days once things normalize, and they will, we can hope to see a more compassionate, resilient and responsible world.