What we are not hearing…

Pollution has drastically been reduced as a result of what is happening across the globe. Clear water in the Venice canals, clear skies over Beijing. But no one is talking about it. To me this is the single most important thing that has happened. Yes, we have a virus running rampant, yes, it is terrible, but what about the wake-up call that is telling us to STOP? To take the time to look and see that we don’t have to be rushing around 24/7. The lack of planes, cars and even cruise ships are helping the planet recover, even if it’s only for a few months. In such a short time to already see the positive changes is astounding. Isn’t this a reason to consider a different way to go about our business?

Instead of being terrified, I am elated. Not, of course, about those who are suffering, but about the sigh of relief I can hear coming from the earth. Could we perhaps heed the lessons coming from this disaster? It shows us that in a few short months earth is already healing. Just think what would happen if we made a few simple changes…for instance, telecommuting, putting restrictions on cruise lines, putting less planes in the air. When have we ever had the entire world come to a collective stop? Now is the time to seize on what we’re learning.

Humans have a great capacity for innovation. But I fear, as with other disasters, that this moment we are living through will all too soon…