They say there’s a rainbow after every storm and although the COVID-19 storm has yet to pass, thousands of rainbows are shining brightly over Staten Island this week.
After local mom Jeannette Catherine was left feeling overwhelmed with thoughts of protecting her loved ones, she was struck by a wonderful idea that would turn the negative thoughts into positive ones. Inspired by messages of hope overseas, she took to Facebook to ask friends to hang rainbows in their windows to “prove that positivity and hope are just as contagious as this virus.”
Her rapidly growing Facebook group “Rainbows Over Staten Island and Beyond” displays the following message:
“A Mommy had a meltdown last Friday night, that mommy was me. The thought of this virus, protecting my daughters, my loved ones on the front line. I was paralyzed with fear. Not going to lie, it wasn’t my best moment. I had read about these magical rainbows being hung in Spain and Italy, and thought, maybe we should try that here at home. Now, 3 days later and OVER 8,000 members. I have NEVER EVER EVER been prouder of my hometown. I know it began with helping the children deal with our social distancing, however, so many have commented on how it is helping them deal with their current situation as well. Groups have been formed across the country, all from our little group. Be proud Staten Island on how you are single handly lifting the spirits of others. This just proves how contagious hope and positivity are.”
Head over to Facebook to join the group and post pictures of your own colorful contributions to the project. And don’t forget to count the rainbows you see in the windows of your neighborhood when you head outdoors for a fresh air walk. Its all part of the fun!
