The coronavirus has caused physical and psychological suffering, prematurely ending many lives and placing incredible strain on modern health and social care systems, and even more so on the economy.
At the same time, it has forced industries to find ways to operate, wherever possible, without relying on the daily commuting of people. The reduction in work-related travel-and for other reasons, for many individuals living in communities where such movement is the norm-has given them an opportunity to appreciate the benefits of being in the same place. This includes exploring previously overlooked local green spaces, connecting with neighbors through mutual support networks, and enjoying the in-person shopping experience offered by local stores. Conversely, for those who have experienced social isolation or are trapped in homes where domestic violence is prevalent, restrictions on movement can be a brutal ordeal. Perhaps most importantly,
in the long run, the virus has illuminated some of the greatest failures of modern humanity and given us reason to deeply reassess our current trajectory. With population growth continuing and life support systems deteriorating, humanity is headed for widespread suffering. We are currently sharing the rest of the living world with us, like a drowning person pushing another underwater in a desperate attempt to find oxygen-but on an almost far larger scale. A profound change is urgently needed. This change must find value in all systems of life. When humanity progresses to a point where other beings are no longer seen as commodities or resources, but as individuals with meaningful lives in their own right, we will give ourselves and all our earthly neighbors real hope for a just future.