Within the last few weeks, it seems like the only thing people are talking about is the coronavirus. The pandemic has taken over our television screens, our social media feeds, our topics of conversation — it's everywhere. After a while, it can become a bit too much to bear. As death tolls climb and progress moves slower than ever, some people find themselves in a state of pure panic and fear.
As frightening and uncertain these times are, it is important to be continuously looking for the good. There are so many positive and inspiring things happening right now that are being overlooked: people are caring for each other, checking in with each other, and doing what they can to help. Among all of this chaos, here are eight positive news stories the world needs to see.
1. A $2,500 tip was given to a closing Ohio restaurant.
Because of COVID-19, restaurants are having to temporarily close their doors or minimize their offerings to customers. Because of this, many employees are left without a job. During their last day open, Coaches Bar and Grill on Ohio received a $2,500 tip from a regular customer who wanted to help out during the shutdown.
2. Dozens of whales spotted in Antarctica for the first time since the 1980s.
The Whaling Ban in the 1980s discouraged any whale hunting after the populations of the species living off the coast of South Georgia Island near Antarctica were completely decimated around this time. After decades of protection, scientists are finally seeing dozes of blue whales return and repopulate the area for the first time in 40 years.
3. Tom Hanks inspires fans despite COVID-19 diagnosis.
While filming a movie in Australia, Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, announced that they both tested positive for the coronavirus. As a message of hope and a bit of comedic relief, Hanks tweeted: "There are things we can all do to get through this by following the advice of experts and taking care of ourselves and each other, no? Remember, despite all the current events, there is no crying in baseball."
4. The waters in the canals flowing through Venice, Italy are clear.
Because of Italy's nationwide shutdown, the canal systems have stopped. As a result, the sediments in the water have settled to the bottom and created clearer water as a result. Fish and swans have been seen enjoying the empty waterways. Scientists have said that the water quality has not improved, but because of less boat traffic, the air quality most likely has.
5. California governor utilizes 256 state-owned buildings to combat homelessness crisis.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has redirected the use of government-owned buildings to provide living spaces for their large homeless population. These buildings are anything from incomplete projects, empty fairgrounds, to vacant government office spaces. This is a continuation of his efforts started in 2019 to alleviate the burdens of California's homeless population.
6. Vans releases a new line of shoes designed for individuals with autism.
The everyday tasks most of us don't think twice about can be extremely difficult for an individual with autism. For example, tying shoelaces can completely alter the start of their day. Vans recently released their Autism Awareness Collection which includes eight different designs that make it easier for an individual with autism to put their shoes on without sacrificing their independence or personal style.
7. High School Musical cast dances "We're All In This Together" on TikTok.
During this time of self-quarantine, some of the High School Musical alumni, including Ashley Tisdale and Vanessa Hudgens, hopped on TikTok to duet and dance to the song "We're All In This Together." Other cast members have jumped on to the app and danced along with them.
8. Musicians are hosting virtual concerts for those quarantined and self-distancing.
Many concerts and tours are being canceled because of CDC recommendations to avoid mass gatherings. As a result, musicians such as John Legend, Keith Urban, and Chris Martin from Coldplay have individually live-streamed different musical performances for fans around the world.
Mr. Rogers once said, "When I was a boy and I would see scary things on the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'" During the COVID-19 situation, remember to seek out the good stories. If for some reason you can't find one, make one.
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