Will everything change?

We are in the midst of a global pandemic.
And no one knows the extent of the virus’s spread.
Or the ultimate consequences.
But one thing has become very clear.
COVID-19 will change the world.
Because we’ve been shaken awake.
The forced timeout has made us conscious.
Of our beliefs, choices and habits.
Like a struggling sports team on the sidelines.
We’ve become aware of various aspects of our lives.
Ones that we didn’t notice.
And which needed to change.
Like how we govern, work, eat, and shop.
And even how we relate, care for each other, and socialize.
Will this timeout create a new era of possibility?
Will we design new and better ways to live and play?
Ones that foster openness, candor and cooperation?
I wouldn’t bet on it.
Fear and uncertainty tend to narrow perspectives.
Giving rise to a myopic and suspicious self-interest.
And so we will likely turn inward.
Like turtles withdrawing into protective shells.
Strengthening governments and reinforcing nationalism.
Curbing economic globalization and international interdependence.
And yet, as history has proven, over and over again.
The power of the human spirit will prevail.
We are already seeing it.
An outpouring of goodness, kindness and heroism.
In the courageous efforts of healthcare providers.
Risking their own well-being to save the lives of others. 
In the resilience of teachers.
Actively planning online lessons for their anxious students.
In the kindness of neighbors.
Offering assistance to the poor, infirm and elderly.
In the gestures of enlightened leaders.
Caring for their customers and employees with acts of generosity.
Will everything change?
That’s a rhetorical question.
The coronavirus will affect work, education, healthcare, diplomacy, globalization, even climate change.
The more important question is:
Will it change… you?
Will you become the person the world needs you to be?
Will you empower your loved ones to overcome their fears?
Will you selflessly serve your community and encourage others?
Will you dance with reality as a more compassionate and inspired human being.
Victor Hugo wrote, “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.”
Yes, the sun will eventually rise on a new normal for all of us.
In the meantime, let us be a bright light that shines the way.