In 2020, we are looking at an issue bigger than an illness. There’s a lot going on in our world today and it’s easy to fall into a pit of hopelessness and discouragement. However, during times like this, it’s important to look at the positives amidst all the tough negatives that are happening at the same time.
We are working on finding a cure from our oceans. This isn’t the first time we’ve done this either. Scientists are using bacteria in the depths of our oceans to carry out rapid tests for the presence of COVID-19. This is something we’ve done to diagnose AIDS and even treat cancer. And, this is only one of the several ways that scientists are looking to overcome the virus.
Our air pollution has been down all over the world. According to The San Diego Union-Tribune, the fact that people are walking and staying home, rather than traveling to work has lowered their air pollution. That’s not the only place though. It’s happening in big cities such as New York City and Beijing. This shows how much we pollute our air. In just a few weeks it’s been lowered, and just imagine what it could be if we tried to travel by car less each day in a few years.
We are redefining the way we see technology. If someone told you a year ago that most Americans would be working/learning from home, it would seem impossible. But with the shift to remote schooling and working, we’re forced to face technology in a different light other than negative, from previous stereotypes. The idea that technology is “ruining our children” will most likely diffuse when people recognize the millions of people who are completing college online or those who are teaching classes to a group of students over Zoom, or even those who work tirelessly sitting at their computer for hours to complete their workday.
The new definition of strength is being told. Countries around the world are showing the strength that everyday citizens hold. By clapping out their windows every night when the doctors and nurses night shift begins, or by putting signs on their homes saying, “Everything will be okay,” or even by helping those who are in need during this time with food, resources, and a place to stay. When little kids grow up and think of the word “strength” they won’t only think of those who fight in our armed forces, but those who risk their lives on the frontline of this disease as well.
