Stronger as one


What we are dealing currently with has a deep meaning for society. We are presented with a unique opportunity we never had before.

We have the chance to better ourselves; go back to simpler ways; contact old friends we never had time to call; spend more time with our kids, time we complained was scarce; check on neighbors we never talked to; and be more connected with one another.

This challenging situation is exactly what humanity needed, a time to stop; reevaluate the way we live our lives and what we focus on; and also confront what we had not dealt with.

Our planet takes advantage of our absence and cures itself; rivers are cleaner, air is purer and stars are more visible, only in a couple of weeks.

Blessed we are because pain is our biggest teacher. We are isolating to learn in the pain of loneliness the importance of collectiveness, learn the significance of being with others. Fear and anxiety are felt, but blessed are those who understand the silver lining in this.

We will not be the same. We are finally realizing that money will not get us out of this pandemic. The rich are just as at risk as the poor.

There has been so much division in the U.S. but none of that is important now. We will unite to get through this challenging time. We are cooperating and learning fast. What a wonderful opportunity to support each other and learn new ways to approach this situation.

We are stronger together and the effects of this new awareness will last forever.

Joanne Hughes-Koenig
Thousand Oaks