The Covid-19 pandemic that has swept across the world is putting our species to the test. Suddenly we are forced to answer the question: What does it mean to be human?

Our character as an individual is revealed not in a moment of triumph, but in a moment of hardship. The same can be said collectively, for our species.

In a crisis there are three choices one can make: (1) do nothing, (2) look out for oneself, (3) look out for others. I believe the last one, to look out for others, is the most important. Yes, we must look out for ourselves, too. However, sole focus on oneself and we drag others down to brings ourselves up (see: hoarding toilet paper and supplies). Sole focus on others and we jeopardize our very ability to help (eg. getting sick and unable to be present for a family member). Why not a combination of the latter two; called “look out for everyone, equally.”

Moreover, this mindset is the basis of human success over time. No great feat was ever accomplished alone. Throughout the course of time, we have united against a common challenge in order to product our most outstanding achievements. The 2nd World War was not won by one person, or even one country. It was a collective effort and the collective part was vital to success. Now the entire world, the entire species is facing a common enemy. This certainly will not be the last time we do. How will we respond? How will you respond?