We asked a broad array of Pittsburghers—the pandemic has certainly brought hardships, but what “silver linings” have accompanied it that have affected your life in a positive way?
I feel richer for the depth of humanity I see every day working in senior living. Families and staff have worked so hard to keep our residents safe. People ARE kind, patient and loving. Bicycling with friends on the city’s bridges and bike paths, then relaxing afterward to share laughter and pain, has made this time very special. —Marilyn Walsh, Providence Point
The pandemic absolutely reinforced the importance of personal connections, both with family and friends, as well as with our clients—all of whom are simply individuals recognizing the need for real relationships and meaningful connectivity. —Michael R. Foster, J.P. Morgan Private Bank
As difficult as COVID-19 has been for all, camaraderie and togetherness feels like it’s permeating through our business and community as we create new plans to meet customer needs and try to give back to Pittsburgh in the most impactful way possible. —Tim Hillebrand, Don’s Appliances
Practicing yoga via Zoom with my teacher in NYC, Chrissy Carter, now five times a week, rather than three or four times a year. Whole cloth woven from the threads laid bare by the pandemic. —Jerry Morosco, Gerald Lee Morosco Architects
The unexpected pleasure of having our three daughters home for six months in 2020 has been a blessing. We laughed, cooked together, built raised garden beds, ran, planted vegetables, and took long walks! What could be better? —Beth Genter, Schenley Capital
Twenty years of massive tech spending barely moved the business productivity dial—UNTIL NOW! Had COVID happened even three years ago, we could not have responded with remote work the way we have. HUGE. SEATBELTS PLEASE! —Thomas Wentling, Wentling, Tarquinio, Loughney
Wealth Consulting Group
I am inspired by strengthened relationships. I am humbled by the selflessness of teachers and the resilience of children. I am hopeful that we can grasp this pivotal moment and prioritize unity and decency. —Alex Dick, Dick Building Co.
Though the pandemic has certainly taken its toll, it gave me dinners with my family I never thought I would have and taught me not to take for granted in-person interaction with my colleagues. —Chris McCrady, Simpson McCrady
As I think about school life, some silver linings have been a deepened appreciation for our relationships and the opportunity for us to model great flexibility, creativity and resilience for our students. —Macon Finley, The Ellis School
In 2020, we’ve turned challenges into opportunities. New light was shed on shortfalls across our society, and we’ve had to address these shortfalls head on. I believe we’ll continue to work together to make our world a better place. —Nick Vizzoca, Vincentian Collaborative System
Like lots of parents, I’ve gotten an up-close look at—and a deeper appreciation for—the extraordinary efforts of educators. What might be possible when families and teachers alike partner as allies in children’s learning? —Gregg Behr, The Grable Foundation
Children of all ages are particularly impacted by the pandemic. With great need comes great responsibilities—and wonderful opportunities to help families in need through education, physical and behavioral health, and early intervention services. —Karen Markle, The Children’s Institute
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