I enjoyed columnist Tom Purcell’s positive spin on a year that appears to most other people as dreadful (“Covid-19 obscures so many ways 2020 is best year ever,” Nov. 16, TribLIVE). It is true, in some respects, that 2020 is the “best year ever” when compared to the quality of life 50 to 100 years ago. However, it is important to note the perspective of the articles he used to reinforce his opinion.
For instance, he stated that poverty has decreased globally. However, this is based on a $2 per day criteria, not counting for inflation. Today’s poverty line is $7.40 per day, putting 4.2 billion below that line and suggesting an increase in poverty. Unfortunately, many people’s basic needs continue to not be met, despite the progress our global society has made.
I am not writing to take away from the positivity of the column. Instead, I hope that while people share their gratitude this Thanksgiving, they do not take their blessings for granted. And I hope some read this and choose to give so that one day everyone’s basic needs may be met.
Zoe Moser
Murrysville