The future is murky. Far more clear than diving into uncertain predictions about the end of this pandemic is reflecting on what it has taught the country. A recent Pew Research Center survey illustrated just that, asking Americans a simple question: Do you believe there is a lesson or a set of lessons for humankind to learn from the coronavirus outbreak?
Responses and emphases varied. Some suggested that the virus was sent by God to teach humankind a lesson. Others highlighted political polarization and leadership failures. A number spoke of social inequalities that were exacerbated, or about a need for more preparation for future crises.
One of the most poignant themes, emphasized by many respondents, carried an aura of self-reflection. The biggest lesson learned from COVID-19, several respondents claimed, was that it forced them to reevaluate their personal lives, priorities and relationships. Here are some of the answers given:
“It’s important to occasionally take a step back and focus on your well-being and your relationships with those you love. Working and spending your time and money isn’t what life is about.” — A 24-year-old man.
“To appreciate and love each other. To be thankful for our blessings.” — A 71-year-old woman.
“Life moves too quickly and people don’t slow down long enough to see their lives pass by. The virus has shown us that life doesn’t need to fly by so quickly. We can enjoy the moment more.” — A man in his 40s.
“To empathize with each other, to be considerate of others, to appreciate all of those who serve and work with the public, treat them well and compensate them well.” — A 52-year-old woman.
Without doubt, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought terrible suffering. More than 218,000 Americans have died, adding to the death toll of more than 1 million people worldwide. Countless others have lost jobs, suffered deep emotional strain or overcome illness from the virus, only to have severe lingering side effects. But perhaps one silver lining of the pandemic — against the backdrop of grief — is that many individuals and families have used this unique time to heal and strengthen relationships.
The annual American Family Survey, conducted by the Deseret News and researchers at Brigham Young University, found similar patterns. Among U.S. adults, 56% of Americans in a current relationship said that the pandemic has made them appreciate their partner more, as opposed to 10% on the contrary. Almost half said that their commitment to their relationship has deepened, with only 9% disagreeing.
“Relationships appear to be a source of resilience in dealing with the stresses of the pandemic,” the American Family Survey summary report read. “In this way, families and relationships appear to be a lifeline through the challenges of COVID-19, not the casualty of it.”
As the country continues to fight through the COVID-19 pandemic and wade through a divisive election cycle, we hope one lesson floats to the top of mind: Each person needs the lifeline of relationships. Without someone to trust, learning expert Ulrich Boser warns, “our brains can self-destruct.” Cultivating relationships and evaluating priorities during this pandemic will be the antidote.