Our New World AND HOW WE ARE LIVING IN IT
CHAOS IS A LADDER
BY BEATRICE K.
COVID-19 propelled our world into a hectic chaos
while giving us all new vocabulary: self-isolation
and social-distancing. Now, three months into the
event, we may feel trapped, stressed, or even oddly calm
at times.
achieve something which we never expected. Accept that
life is uncertain instead of fighting it. We may not want to
embrace change, but history tells us time and again that
crises alter society. And those who adapt are those who
thrive.
Clearly, everything from fashion to politics to common
mentalities, and even to social and work life, will be altered
in some way or another. But beyond all that, what can we
expect moving forward from this turning point in history?
“Chaos isn‘t a pit. Chaos is a ladder.”
This quote is not from a famous philosopher, but instead
from the HBO hit series Game of Thrones, and it offers an
interesting lens through which to understand chaos.
The word “chaos” comes from the Greek khaos, meaning
abyss or void that gapes wide open. The Game of Thrones
character Littlefinger uses this quote to illuminate
opportunities during turbulent times, that is, to climb a
ladder while many others are stalled by events. And while
tumult can be overwhelming, according to Littlefinger,
“Only the ladder is real.”
Every generation has its historical moments of great
change. Consider the 1918 Spanish influenza, the Great
Depression, World War II, the Cold War, or even 9/11. The
chaos of these eras devoured any previous sense of stability
and touched every person’s life in some way. But events
and eras eventually come to an end and new beginnings
arise.
Discussions in Germany have already surfaced about how
work will be performed post-pandemic, as well as the
possibility of a “greener” recovery. For many businesses,
religious organizations, and friend groups, social media has
never been more vital.
It’s becoming apparent that the virus is slowing, and
countries are reopening, and as new light shines, societies
will change. It is up to us to decide what our new world will
look like. Climb that ladder!
Our times are uncertain. But every moment is a unique
chance to see through chaos, climb the ladder, and strive to
14 Special Theme: Our New World