Just a peek at the news can send anyone into a downward spiral of despair these days. We must celebrate the many good things (and there are many) that are happening in light of this pandemic. This does not in any way undermine the seriousness of the current state of affairs all over the globe, but it does refuel our “happy” tank and allow us a minute to escape to a good place. Won’t you celebrate these things with me?
You have more time for self-reflection
Although being alone with yourself may be a bit uncomfortable at first, there are countless benefits to quiet alone time to reflect, meditate, pray, and just sort through our thoughts. According to researchers, alone time has been linked to increased happiness, improved stress management, and better life satisfaction.
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People are helping the most fragile members of our communities
It is so good to see communities coming together to protect and serve the most vulnerable populations in communities. Stores are making special shopping hours to keep seniors away from the crowds, and people are organizing to keep the elderly and homebound fed and comforted.
People are enjoying time together with their family
When our busy lives came screeching to a halt, many people were fixated on the crisis at hand and not the good things to come. One reality of day to day living is that many of us are spending more time at home with our family. We are having conversations, eating together, playing games, and just enjoying being in the company of the ones we love.
We are spending more time recreating outside
Even if you are sheltering in place, you can still get outside to enjoy a hike, a bike ride, or a stroll around the neighborhood. Local and state parks are seeing more traffic than usual, and, as long as we are abiding by social distancing rules, this is a great thing. There is nothing better than time spent in nature under the sun.
Pollution is way down
According to environmentalists, up to 100,000 premature deaths caused by air pollution can be avoided if the economic shutdown continues at the same rate for the next year. With factories shut down, transportation restricted, and many people staying close to home, the earth is breathing a sigh of relief. According to the Centre for International Climate Research in Oslo, this impact is being felt all over the world. Satellite images confirm that our planet is indeed getting a much-needed break.
Game-changing donations coming in all over the world
Individuals, professional athletes, musicians, celebrities, and businesses large and small, are all stepping up to the plate to donate money and supplies to help protect those on the front lines and people all over the world who are feeling the impact of the virus.
Technology is being used for great things
We live at a time in history when we have access to some amazing technology. This technology is being used all over the world by people to stay in touch with friends and loved ones, for education and also for entertainment. Musicians are performing free concerts online, museums and art galleries are using technology for virtual tours, and online learning centers are slashing rates for people to take courses.
We are reconnecting with our pets
If you used to take your dog to daycare or leave him at home while you were at work, he is surely enjoying having you home all day now. More playtime and snuggle is sure to make Fido a happy dog! Although, the jury is out as to whether cats are enjoying the same amount of attention, as they tend to be more independent and like their alone time! I know that my cats just stare at me as if to ask, “ When are you going to get off my couch?”
We are cooking homemade meals
With restaurants shut up for a while, millions of people are experiencing the joy of cooking once again. Many people are serving up nutritionally-packed meals in an effort to stay as healthy as possible.
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Venice canals are clearing up
Venice, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, is usually loaded with thousands of tourists this time of year, leading to cloudy canals and increased water pollution. According to local citizens of this waterlogged city, the canals are getting a much-needed break from the constant traffic and the water is becoming clearer, with fish even visible beneath the surface. Though the coronavirus is truly a tragedy, the decrease in boat traffic and break in tourism could be just what the fragile city needs to help combat pollution.
We are learning how to be more self-sufficient
Sheltering in place requires us to plan better to provide for our families. With that in mind, many are planning and already starting to grow their own vegetable gardens. Although it is unlikely that there will be a huge interruption in our food supply, now is a great time to learn how to grow delicious and nutritious food for the entire family, and many are embracing this opportunity now.
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