Letter to the World: The Silver Lining to the Coronavirus

We have been through so much over the past several weeks with the coronavirus pandemic. In addition to the growing number of deaths and severe illnesses, there have been frightening economic impacts around the world, leading to terrible physical and emotional stress for so many. Despite all the hardships, which I don’t discount at all, it seems that we are starting to care more about others than ever before…to finally give a damn…about each other. Maybe it took a horrifying pandemic to get our attention.https://www.linkedin.com/embeds/publishingEmbed.html?articleId=7733239731629017855

I love seeing so many recent demonstrations of respect and appreciation for our health care workers, first responders, police officers, and teachers. I think so many of us now understand our total dependence on these people, as well as the countless ways that we depend on farmers, and the transportation, travel, food service, and technology industries. I love how many prominent individuals are donating to charities. I hope these efforts will continue and not end when this is over. This new awareness, appreciation, and respect are some of the silver linings that I see in this coronavirus crisis.

Even in the most difficult times, I hope that we can look for some good, no matter how small, in very bad situations; and be grateful for positive changes. Although this virus has been deadly and continues to be scary, I want to express how the coronavirus has made us realize the following:

·      That we can all come together, regardless of race or ethnicity, and that when we do, we are capable of solving big problems;

·      That we should slow down so that we might set aside time for the most basic and important things such as family, friends, giving, and sharing our talents and expertise;

·      That we know how to aside our differences and prejudices in order to focus on what we can do to help others;

·      That we can better appreciate our freedom and the many luxuries we enjoy each day, yet often take for granted;

·      That leaders of our cities, states and countries can come together in efforts to collaborate and solve problems;

·      To let me and other Americans know that individually I can make a difference, but collectively we can change the world;

·      That you have united the world as a family and have connected us in multiple new ways, regardless again of race or ethnicity, religious affiliation or political views.

Today, and each day going forward, we have new opportunities to change the world through our actions. Perhaps the coronavirus is helping us to become more compassionate and empathetic citizens, and maybe through altruism, caring, respecting and collaborating with each other in new ways, we can create a more positive, and happier long-lasting cultural change. This is my greatest hope.

For other ideas for helping to make the world a better place, visit www.giveadamnbook.com.