The coronavirus has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Media panic is at an all-time high, and governments across the globe are scrambling to respond. Borders are sealed. Schools, offices, and theatres have shut down (can we at least keep Netflix?). We’re officially in global lockdown.
Is this the apocalypse? Probably not. The world has seen its share of pandemics—1918 Flu, Hong Kong Flu, Russian Flu. Yes, millions died, but humanity persisted. We’ll likely make it through COVID-19 too.
But something is different this time—hello, social media. Amidst the chaos, here are a few unexpected lessons this pandemic has taught us.
Lesson 1: Grandmothers Were Always Right
Remember when your grandmother told you to stop touching your face and wash your hands? Turns out that “old school” advice is frontline pandemic wisdom.
The WHO, governments, doctors, and even celebrities now have one collective mantra: Wash. Your. Hands. Frequently. Thoroughly. And don’t touch your face. That’s how you reduce the risk.
Even if you come into contact with the virus, it can’t enter your system unless it finds a way in—usually through your eyes, nose, or mouth. So yes, Grandma’s ghost is smirking in the background, eyebrows raised: I told you so.
Lesson 2: Being Anti-Social Is Healthy
I’m an extrovert. I love people. I love going out. But a few of my closest friends are textbook introverts—practically reclusive.
And suddenly, they’re thriving.
The world is now saying: stay home. Don’t go out. Avoid gatherings. Keep 1 meter away from people (yes, even your partner). Offices are embracing remote work, events are canceled, and we’re collectively being asked to isolate.
The message? Staying in isn’t just okay—it might save lives. Including your own.
Lesson 3: Social Media Will #Kill Us, Social Media Will #Save Us
What makes this pandemic unique is that it’s unfolding in the age of social media.
Every day, we get a dose of:
- Hilarious Corona memes
- Tom Hanks’ quarantine updates
- WHO advisories and DIY immunity tips
- Fictional forwards from the WhatsApp medical association
It’s a lot.
Yes, social media keeps us informed and connected. But it also spreads panic and misinformation fast. There’s a fine line between staying updated and spiraling into anxiety.
Still, keep the memes coming. Seriously. A little humor is essential in the time of COVID (or no COVID).
Lesson 4: We Don’t Care if Our Kids Die
Here’s a hard truth: the pandemic has forced us to make sacrifices—cancel travel, skip commutes, stop shopping. Entire industries are on pause. Economies are taking a hit.
But you know who’s kind of loving it? The planet.
The skies are clearer. Pollution levels are dropping. And for once, humans have slowed down.
Apparently, the threat of dying tomorrow from a virus gets us to act faster than the idea of our kids suffering from climate collapse decades from now.
Maybe we don’t need better data on climate change—maybe we just need better PR..