Looking at COVID-19 through a different outlook

By: Gabriel Lorenzo

Today, we all have to stay at home and follow what the authorities say when it comes to practicing simple steps to defeat a big virus. As the outbreak continues to impact more and more communities, that hasn’t stopped them from giving and receiving hope amidst what is going on. Despite hearing those big numbers of cases in our county, state, country and even the world, there are people who are doing acts of kindness, making a greater impact on others. Being positive during these harsh times will light in us hope at the end of the tunnel.

There have been good things that happened because we have to isolate ourselves. The first is school standardized testing. On April 7, many students across the state were going to take standardized tests. The freshmen don’t have to take MAPS testing. Sophomores and juniors don’t have to take the ACT.

The second is being with family. Family is something that should be valued, but sometimes we think there is no importance in spending time with them. As many families have to stay in their homes, family relationships are positively impacted by spending time together.

The third good thing is the reduction of air pollution. There are graphs that show how big of a change has happened over China and Italy, including some cities in the United States like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle and Atlanta.

There are many positive results, and people are also giving that same positivity to others. Many communities are starting to spread love. Some neighborhoods are coming together with teddy bears in windows, music, Christmas lights and birthday celebrations. Local photographers are offering family portraits free of charge to show life during these difficult times.

Another point that is good to mention is generosity. People have been generous with their time spent with family, friends and the community. Also, many celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Taylor Swift have donated money and created fundraisers to help facilitate tests and a cure.

When we experience tough times, each one of us has to contribute in order to work together. We can be thankful for the people that are at the front of the battle, like doctors, nurses, farmers, employers and many more making a big contribution to mankind. Working together will enable us to help others with kindness that will make a greater impact to every one of us.