Looking for good news these days is like playing Where’s Waldo. Except that instead of little cartoon hordes, you’re wading through stories of death and economic collapse, or conspiracy posts from that guy you knew in middle school.
But the good news is, there is still good news.
Our radical lifestyle shift has created some positive side effects. Fossil fuel consumption has plummeted since the stay-at-home orders began. With fewer cars on the road, gas prices are at a an all time low, and nature has been able to take a much needed breather. The people of Punjab are finally able to see the Himalayas again. The people of Los Angeles are able to see, um, Los Angeles.
Even the bleak economic picture has some silver linings. There’s been a surge of charitable giving from both corporations and individuals to help those affected by the coronavirus. Notable names from business and entertainment have given billions of dollars in medical equipment and financial gifts. Companies have retooled their entire business models, such as hotels becoming quarantine centers, breweries and perfume companies making hand sanitizer, and global fashion labels manufacturing face masks. Examples like these are a testament to our adaptability as a society.
When good news is a precious commodity, we need to get creative and make our own. What are some surprisingly positive effects you’ve seen as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic?