The coronavirus is an omnipresent topic, and the world is shaken by uncertainty and fear. It is in moments like this that we tend to turn inwards, become melancholic and get a grasp of what really is important in life. What is it for you?
The current circumstances are new to most of us, no one really knows what to do or what will happen next. The news is giving us updates in hourly intervals, and the internet is full of genuine facts as well as untrue information. The prevailing mood is rather concerned, and people try to do their best to deal with it. In an unprecedented situation like this, we suddenly realize things that have not necessarily been that obvious to us before. Here are my impressions about what really matters in life:
1) The Essentials
We usually take them for granted, but some things are simply gifts from heaven: enough (and good) food, clothes that keep us warm, shelter to retreat and to have some privacy, a healthy body, as well as electricity and clean water. All these things could be taken away from us within a split second, and I'm sure most of us would struggle to survive without all the comforts modern life is offering us. Nowadays, growing veggies on your balcony is rather a hobby, but what if you would need to fend for yourself one day? We should keep that in mind and look at what we have gratefully and appreciatively - because you never know...
2) I Love You
Support, honest feedback, shared laughter and great memories - what would we be without our family and friends? When fear is bringing us closer together, it is more important than ever to show and tell your loved ones how much you care about them. This will have a reassuring effect on everybody involved, not to mention gratitude as well as a reinforcement of the relation. So, make use of modern technologies and share your feelings - because everybody likes to hear some nice words every now and then...
3) Solidarity
Humans are social animals by nature and tend to take care of one another. At least, this is how it is supposed to be. However, anxiety and panic in unforeseen and frightening times like this can easily transform this natural helpfulness into inconsiderate selfishness. Let's try to not forget that we are all in the same boat and that each of us has the same need, hopes and worries at the moment. If we start acting respectfully and deal with this exceptional situation in a responsible way, I'm sure all this will immediately feel less scary and we will be able to find a solution in no time - because the greatest things are achieved as a group.
4) Freedom
We always miss the most what we don't have right now. Some of us are obliged to stay home until further notice, and suddenly an innocent and carefree walk outside has turned into an unattainable treat. We are so used to doing and getting what we want and whenever we want, that we almost forgot how lucky we are. Now I suddenly enjoy every single sunbeam that breaks through the clouds and I can't wait to be able to go out there again, without having to worry about my own or other people's health - because freedom and serenity are priceless!
5) Security
Most of our concerns nowadays are luxury problems: what's the best gift for the wedding, do we go to the restaurant or to the cinema this weekend, and why the hell is the baby next door crying yet again? We are all pampered by a stable infrastructure and a well-run economy. But what if all this collapses within only a few days? We don't know yet how big the overall impact of the virus will be, but it is already affecting an incredible number of sectors. All we can do is to stay strong and to hope for the best - because faith can move mountains.