I think this pandemic sure made it's impact on the world, and there are many many things it makes us stop and think about. Like what is most important to u.. It's funny how we don't really appreciate certain thing until those are taken away. Half of my family (wife and son) are still in Philippines waiting for a visa to come to USA. pre-covid this was not even a big deal.
If you think about humans, the way we lived 200 years ago, you get a sense of how many things we are taking for granted. No matter how much we try to remind ourselves that a mere email is a luxury, there's nothing like having that taken away to realize that you are completely spoiled. It is not a realization that I wish on anyone, people died before Covid never to have this point driven home. However, there is a cost to putting so much power in the hands of so many people.
Warm regards to your family, I hope they are well!