I’m one of millions who lost my job and was left reeling. My only source of comfort is witnessing people come together to help each other, be it shopping for an elderly neighbor, making masks, or donating money. Everyone has either helped or been helped, and the stories of such efforts on social media inspire more people to reach out. It’s terrible that we must bridge the gap between the governments’ aid and the people’s need, but it shows that we’re more powerful than we’re led to believe, and we CAN shape our country into a system that works for everyone. Daffodils cover the ground here in New York, where the pandemic is raging. They symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and friendship. In my painting the daffodils represent hope for what is to come, and strength amidst struggle. The nurse, though her face is sad, offers them to the viewer as a reminder that you can feel more than one thing during this time, and to grasp for whatever happiness you can. I wanted this to be a tribute to the amazing healthcare workers as well as a reminder that dark times can bring out the best in us.