The world is different now.

It’s impossible to deny that the world outside our comfy beds and couches has changed in numerous ways due to the current Coronavirus pandemic. Though many are staying indoors for the foreseeable future as advised, those who must leave their houses for work or necessary errands have noticed the incredible change in our daily lives.

Back roads, main roads, and even highways are nearly barren at normally peak rush hours. Movie theater and mall parking lots are completely empty, besides the occasional security car or maintenance truck. Drive-thru and pickup dining are now the only ways to get your hands on America’s beloved fast food. “Non-essential” stores, like toy and technology stores and sit-down restaurants, have closed for the time being, and even some essential stores have reduced hours of operation.

Many students especially are feeling a sense of grief at the loss of the end of their school year. Classroom instruction has moved completely online with cancellations of sports, field trips, special events like the musical and prom, and graduation ceremonies saddening students across the nation.

But with this time freed for young people around the country, a new admiration of nature has sprouted. More and more, kids bored of their phones and computers, have turned to outdoor walks, kicking a ball around, hikes, or even just sitting in a sun-filled spot to take up their time not spent on schoolwork. Like times before the internet, young people have been more and more willing to hang around outside until the lamps lining the streets glow a dim orange again.

The real grief being felt is among the patients, families, doctors, and nurses dealing with the pandemic now. Essential workers have the worst end of the bargain during this time. Dealing with long hours (especially for healthcare workers), needy patients, and demanding customers takes an emotional and physical toll on these people who have no choice but to clock in every day.

Without expecting much more than a “please” or “thank you,” essential workers report to work daily as normal, following increasingly strict requirements for safety concerns all while providing for others. Unselfishly, they put themselves in harm’s way to increase the quality of life for hundreds around them.

There are many things to be bitter about: widespread fear, hospitals scrambling for necessary supplies, paranoia, the end of school, cancellations, and even just feelings of isolation. However, there’s no reason to give up hope and positivity. Have concern for your health, but remember to be calm. You won’t be any safer while hyper-paranoid than you will be with a healthy caution for safety. And if you’re feeling sad or lonely, think of what healthcare professionals working hard to keep you safe are going through, and remember that now is a better time than ever to cherish a “sunny spot” in your life.