Lately, news of how the coronavirus is impacting our world has been non-stop. Since then, every public university and K-12 school in Michigan has put a pause on face-to-face learning. Michigan bars and restaurants have been temporarily shut down. Social distancing — which governments across the country have been enforcing — means we can only meet in small groups.

Bus lines have been altered. Courts have closed. MSU’s graduation commencement has been postponed. Even watching sports to take your mind off the chaos is no longer an option.

And things will probably get worse.

We have no idea what this will mean for small businesses or for the global economy. Some are losing their jobs or are facing displacement, and we really have yet to see the peak of how the pandemic will impact our society. We also don’t know how long it will persist.

Despite all of these unknowns, the key to getting through this crisis is remembering our humanity.

All of our lives are connected, whether you’re still in East Lansing, you’re at your permanent residence or you’re somewhere else entirely. The actions you take during this time have the potential to lift the people around you up — or bring them down.

The MSU community prides itself on having heart and on making an impact in both big and small ways. We speak up for what is right, fight for others and point out where institutional change is needed.

Why should now be any different?

Spartans, continue to make the world a better place. Make the choice to practice social distancing and self-isolation whenever you can. Donate goods to food banks and money to organizations working to make a difference. Check up on others to see how they’re doing. And take care of yourselves, too.

We still have a long way to go before we return to normalcy, but it will be our humanity, our kindness, compassion and patience, that brings us through this crisis.

The State News Editorial Board is composed of Editor-in-Chief Madison O’Connor, Managing Editor Mila Murray, Copy Chief Alan Hettinger, Campus Editor Evan Jones, City Editor Haley Sinclair, Sports Editor Chase Michaelson, Photo Editor Annie Barker, Multimedia Editor Tessa Osborne, Social Media and Engagement Editor Wolfgang Ruth, Staff Representative Maddie Monroe and Diversity and Inclusion Representative Chandra Fleming.

Social Media and Engagement Editor Wolfgang Ruth and Staff Representative Maddie Monroe did not sit in on this editorial board meeting.