We all know that, right now, our nation is in unfamiliar territory.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Most of us are struggling just to keep up with what this new way of living will mean for our families, jobs and social structure as we adjust to the small scale of our new normal.
There wouldn't be a single one of us who hasn't pondered what the future holds not only for us as individuals, but for the nation.
The situation is changing constantly and there will be dozens of unforeseen hiccups ahead.
Despite the uncertainty though, there are some beautiful stories about how people are helping each other through this crisis.
As The Daily Advertiser has reported, Russia has sent medical equipment and masks to the United States; Cuba's supplied doctors to France and Turkey dispatched protective gear and disinfectant to Italy and Spain.
To see that kind of cooperation on a global scale at a time of worldwide concern is heartwarming, but no less so than the stories that we are hearing right here in our own communities.
We've heard about innovative ways people have found to help out a neighbour, friend or total stranger, and of business owners who have gone out of their way to help a charity.
News coverage has included stories about curtain-making firms who have sourced medical-quality material and have begun making protective garments, while other people with access to three-dimensional printers have been experimenting with creating items like face shields.
We've seen supermarkets change their hours to make sure both the vulnerable and frontline health workers have a chance to get essentials, and there have been countless examples.
Despite the economic uncertainty and social upheaval, it is heartening to see people looking for ways to step up and lend a hand.
None of us knows what the next few months, or even years, will bring, but it seems we are already recognising the need to protect our communities ties.
Have a great week. Jody Lindbeck - journalist.