The world is on lockdown, but not all is doom and gloom – as people unite during a period that can only be described as one of the most challenging times we have faced in decades. Our ways of life have been put on pause, travel and holidays are no more; our freedom of movement halted.
But this is only temporary and there will be an end to this crisis. There is a global rise of togetherness and tough times don’t last – but tough companies do.
What good can come out of this chaos and uncertainty? There is hope: here’s some good news stories you might have missed:
- Air pollution and Nitrogen dioxide levels fall rapidly over some cities and regions: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/amp/science-environment-51944780
- Without the pollution and movement from boats in Venice, the water has become clearer than it has been for many years – while fish and wildlife are thrive: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/mar/20/nature-is-taking-back-venice-wildlife-returns-to-tourist-free-city
- Acts of kindness – communities are coming together, singing from balconies in Italy, support groups and volunteers all over the country helping those more vulnerable: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/uk-coronavirus-brit-heroes-who-21698077
- Hundreds of thousands volunteer to help NHS and the Prime Minister thanks those who have signed up as responders: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/coronavirus-boris-johnson-nhs-volunteers-sign-up-how-to-today-a9425916.html
- Everyone gathered on door steps, in their gardens, on their balconies each Thursday. There have been so many positive reviews, news stories and comments – but this one stood out with the videos really displaying a united Britain https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/03/27/thank-nhs-clap-carers/
- Food and gifts sent to our hospitals to support our frontline workers, or given to food banks, and hotels and B&Bs offering beds to NHS and key workers, to name a few.
- Social media users sharing details of home schooling ideas, new hobbies, fitness programmes, baking tips, and virtual tours streaming of galleries, museums, and zoos.
- Remote working, although daunting and perhaps challenging at first isn’t too bad after all, no travelling, productivity levels high with less distractions, contact is still possible and chat on Microsoft Teams or Zoom is the new normal.
- Covid-19 responses across Asia have begun ending flu season early and reducing the spread of other illnesses: https://www.ft.com/content/ad7ae6b4-5eab-11ea-b0ab-339c2307bcd4
Time is the greatest healer and as we have the time to reflect, appreciate the smaller things in life. Spend time with your children, your pets, your significant other – you may be with just them, for a little while. Take some time out to look out the window, if you go for a walk notice how spring is arriving.
One thing we don’t know is how long this will all last, all we do know is there will be an end – we’ll get through this and Lineal’s team are here for you when you need us.