Let’s look at the bright side

By G. Carramaschi

In any given circumstance, considering the surplus of information we receive today, it is very hard not to feel overwhelmed with the sheer number of heart-breaking stories we hear and read about. During periods of crisis it is almost impossible. 

As human beings living in a technology-dominated era, we see, hear and read horrific accounts relating to the coronavirus in Brazil, and all over the world, throughout the entire day. And as these days turn into weeks, it is easy to fall into a spiral of hopelessness over the entire situation. 

So instead of doing that, let’s look at the bright side of things, which, even though might seem very distant from us, is easy to find. As the first piece of The Lion’s new COVID-19 section, let’s begin by looking at the pandemic’s epicentre in Brazil – the State of Sao Paulo. Even though the state has the highest number of cases, it is currently facing this health crisis head on - and the actions from both the government and citizens is enough to make anyone smile.  

The famous Estadio do Pacaembu will not be hosting any football games for the time being, but it will be far from empty - they have generously offered their huge space as hospital for COVID-19 patients. In only 10 days, there are now 200 beds available for high risk patients. And that is not the only act of goodwill we are seeing from the people. The Anhembi Complex will, unfortunately, not be providing musical entertainment, but instead something much more valuable – space for an 1800-bed hospital. Furthermore, there has also been a huge humanitarian effort from private companies, such as Votorantim, which donated R$50 million for the fight against the dissemination of the virus.  

As you can see, humanity is not completely lost – one must simply remember to look at all the honourable actions being made all over the world. We have been through a tough few weeks, and more are to come, and so The Lion News wants to be a beacon of light for you when hope is lost, or if you want to smile. As Albus Dumbledore once said, “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of places, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”.  

And on that note, The Lion News hopes you have a half-term full of light and hope, and that you continue to push through these hard times.