Then came a time when we could no longer look away or pretend we didn't see

By now, I think most of us have realised that if there is one thing this global pandemic is showing us is that we are all in this together. But in doing so, it is also shifting global consciousness, allowing us to experience oneness as our shared reality - not as some ungrounded mystical delusion.

We have been living in a hyper-polarised, fractured world far too long. Right now, bearing witness to the sheer magnitude of human suffering on an unprecedented global scale, we are relearning what it means to truly protect and care for each other and to value all of life. We are practicing what it takes to become more aware of other people's needs and aspirations. We are embracing new ways to be with one another, understanding the extent to which we all long for connection, meaning and purpose. We are getting to know just how resilient and how vulnerable we can be, how uncertain life can become and what an immensely precious gift it is to be alive at this time.

In short, we are recognising the spirit of oneness down to our bones. We are feeling how much we share and have in common - finally seeing that what unites us is stronger than what separates us.

In such a new world, it is impossible for values such as solidarity, humanity, and empathy not to gain new ground. We have plenty to learn from each other and so much to give to one another. So I tell you: this has to stir a kindness revolution. This must be our wake up call. This must be the time when we can no longer turn a blind eye to it all. We cannot let this opportunity slip away, pretending we couldn't see it. Otherwise, virus or no virus, we will not have won this battle.