A Dose of Optimism

It’s been a long couple of days as we all settle into new daily rhythms and tune in to a dizzying news cycle. As we wind down the week, let’s take some time to reflect on what we can celebrate in the midst of the current crisis.

Here at the Center for the Study of Liberty, we believe in the power of human creativity and collaboration. The momentum we’re starting to see – to try out new ideas, to generously share resources, and to take action rather than wait for another to step in – highlights the potential we all have to make a difference. Our choices, however small, do matter.

Here are a few of our favorite inspiring stories of individuals, institutions, and businesses adapting quickly to changing circumstances in order to meet community needs.

 Thinking creatively about our businesses

• Reimagining business models to keep people fed (or supplied) and employees working
• Offering seniors-only shopping hours to minimize risks for the most vulnerable demographic
• Cutting other stakeholders a break to help keep each other in business

Extending a (figurative) hand

• Directly giving to those in need
• Supporting local establishments through take-out or online orders and random acts of kindness
• Forming partnerships to feed kids who rely on school lunches

Filling in the gaps as best we can

• Supporting parents with free online resources, guides, software, and activities
• Figuring out how to get groceries to home-bound neighbors
• Making information more widely available by removing paywalls

Finding the joy in staying connected

• Participating in digital book clubs and literary events
• Building new apps so we can still watch TV together
• Sharing our talents to brighten someone’s day