Zoom Meetings: Do They Help Us or Harm Us?
The COVID-19 pandemic has imparted numerous lessons, some of which extend beyond the immediate crisis, revealing aspects of growth, resilience, and reflection. Not all these lessons are negative; in fact, many individuals discovered a profound reliance on their faith, learning to place their trust in God rather than depending solely on their own strength or understanding. For some, the pandemic provided an opportunity to rest in God's presence and attend to their spiritual well-being, aligning with the biblical insight that "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures" as a means of restoring the soul. The enforced slowdown also allowed many to reconnect with household members, rediscovering the value of relationships that had previously been taken for granted, akin to "ships passing in the night." This period of reflection deepened some individuals' engagement with the Word of God, transforming it into the "Living Word" that profoundly influenced their inner lives. However, the pandemic also exposed vulnerabilities. The prolonged quietness, coupled with the intensity of one's own thoughts, led many into the depths of depression and despair. To combat the discomfort of silence, some resorted to keeping their televisions on around the clock, as the stillness of the environment became unbearable. From a corporate perspective, certain businesses flourished during the lockdown, capitalizing on the lifestyle changes induced by the pandemic. Zoom, a prominent example, emerged as an indispensable tool for maintaining communication. The company's revenue surged, increasing from $623 million in the year preceding the pandemic to $2.65 billion by the end of January 2021—an extraordinary growth of over 300 percent. The following year, Zoom's revenue continued to rise, reaching $4.10 billion, a testament to its pivotal role during this period. While Zoom was instrumental in keeping the world connected safely during the pandemic, it is essential to acknowledge the
