About humanity, hope and courage in the Corona crisis

The coronavirus pandemic is currently bringing us bad news, uncertainty, and many questions every day. Nevertheless, good things are also happening all over the world during this time. Aside from minor toilet paper wars in supermarkets, one almost gets the impression that people are treating each other more kindly. Many are starting to help others or rethink some of the decisions they make every day. Because everyday things suddenly have a higher priority, and people are no longer taking everything for granted.

In this blog post, I share five values that are experiencing a renaissance due to the Corona crisis, giving us hope and bringing a smile to our faces during these difficult times.

1. Empathy

Many people are no longer just thinking about themselves these days, but are increasingly concerned about their fellow human beings. They are asking themselves what the current situation means for older people and those with chronic illnesses. How must the homeless be doing? What is this exceptional situation doing to people who live completely alone and feel lonely? Because any of us could become infected with the virus, and we are therefore basically all in the same situation at the moment, we feel a stronger sense of community. Suddenly we can identify with people who otherwise lead a completely different life than we do. We experience greater compassion and understanding for our families, our neighbors, but also for people all over the world or in particularly affected crisis areas. Because we suddenly understand what it is like to no longer have guaranteed access to everyday products, to be alone, or to not be able to take part in events we have been looking forward to for a long time.

2. Solidarity and willingness to help

This increased empathy and the positive shift in focus towards community are leading to all sorts of offers of help and acts of solidarity. In Italy, people are making music and singing together on balconies; in Germany, candles are lit in the evenings, bells are rung, and there is applause to remember all those affected and all those helping. All sorts of online services are being set up, local retailers are offering delivery services, and donations are being placed on gift fences for the homeless. Even professions that are otherwise taken for granted are now being seen in a different light. All the people who work hard every day to keep the system running are now receiving the recognition they deserve. Even if it's obviously impossible to say across the board, I still have the feeling that most people are sticking together more strongly than before during these difficult times.

3. Creativity and innovation

A special situation requires special ideas. Companies must rethink their approach. Politicians must predict future circumstances as best they can and plan accordingly. Families must find creative solutions. Educational institutions must demonstrate an innovative spirit. And so on and so forth. And even if everything is a bit chaotic and in many areas operations aren't exactly running smoothly, there are still a whole host of creative and wonderful ideas. Large companies are relying on local retailers, tailors are sewing face masks, and breweries are producing disinfectant. But the internet is also a huge help. Museums are offering virtual tours of their exhibitions, some universities are offering free online courses, cultural events are being hosted via livestreams, and home workouts are proliferating on YouTube.But neighborhood assistance and social (donation) projects can also be communicated and supported via the Internet in a very short time.
So many creative minds!

4. Sustainability

The environment is also benefiting in some areas from the current situation. There is less traffic on the roads and therefore fewer traffic jams. Air traffic has also been largely eingestellt.Aufnahmen NASA's data show a sharp decrease in air pollution in China. There are images of dolphins returning and of Venice's canals becoming clear again. Unfortunately, all of these changes are likely to be temporary. But even small improvements are better than nothing, right? At least nature can breathe a little easier. But people are also (forced to) learning to live more sustainably during this time. Or at least to think about their consumption. People are cooking more at home, buying and consuming food more consciously. People are learning new hygiene rules, and paying more attention to how they behave and move in everyday life. This increased awareness of their own health (and that of others) is also sustainable in the long term.

5. Gratitude and mindfulness

Ultimately, the exceptional situation is leading to greater mindfulness in everyday life and more gratitude. We all probably felt restricted at the beginning of the public measures. That's completely normal. After all, many things that were self-evident to us before the quarantine period are no longer an option. But this also shows us how grateful we can be for all the things we don't even consciously notice in everyday life: Numerous shops that are open. Professional groups that are essential to our society. Events that serve our entertainment. Meetings with friends. Flour, sugar, toilet paper. Fresh air. Walks. Family. A roof over our heads. Health (!).

For many people, the coronavirus crisis also presents an opportunity to reflect on how they normally use their time. Priorities can be reset. Time with family is more valued. Free time after work is spent not in front of the television, but with a book or a craft project.
The “a lot of free time” that a large part of society is currently enjoying is an opportunity to slow down and pause on many levels.

What thoughts give you courage in these difficult times? What things happening right now give you hope? We welcome your comments.

If you would like to learn more about mindfulness, healthy eating or sustainability, take a look here over.