For many reasons, Earth Day 2020 looks a bit different than in past years. As the planet continues to operate from indoors, many of us are feeling the absence of the outside world. And to be completely honest, filling this void is much harder than it seems. For many, a great comfort can be found in the natural world. Here, a certain excitement and energy can be felt that is unlike any other. In this fast-paced world, we often flock to the outdoors seeking a sense of stillness. But for everything that our planet does for us, we fail to appreciate it nearly as much as we should. Now, more than ever, may we recognize just how significant a role our earth plays in our daily lives. And as many of us transition indoors, may we reflect on the things that we once took for granted.
For the past month or so, physical separation has swept the planet. As we socially distance ourselves from our fellow humans, we’re also distancing ourselves from the outside world. These stressful changes, however, do seem to have a silver lining. As billions of people stay home, air pollution drops above China and Italy. Marine life is returning to the canals of Venice, as waters become clearer. For the first time in decades, the Himalayas are visible in parts of India. In Florida, endangered sea turtles are able to nest more safely. So while us humans adjust to life indoors, perhaps Mother Earth is breathing a bit more easily.
This strange time has certainly put many things in perspective. Once we regain some sense of normalcy – whatever this might look like – may we remember what good can come when nature is left untouched. And once we regain the freedom to roam the great outdoors, perhaps we’ll feel a bit more appreciative of the incredible world on which we inhabit. Our planet does some pretty extraordinary things for us, even when we’re not looking. So when we’re able to do so, let us appreciate her and all her natural beauty!