Friday marks the 17th annual Global Love Day, established by The Love Foundation, a U.S.-based nonprofit group. While starting the first annual festival in 2004, the foundation hoped that people around the world would focus more on positive things in their communities and nations, instead of negative news often featured on mainstream information sources.

This year's celebration is quite different — both with upsides and downsides. With the COVID-19 pandemic raging in many parts of the world, especially in crowded communities, it's become more important than ever to connect with others to help stop the spread. At the same time, because of lockdowns in those areas, people taking part in this year's celebration may need to show love through virtual means.

It's particularly noteworthy that appreciation for first responders and medical workers became a major theme this year. Many fire stations and medical institutions around the world carried out large-scale welcoming events for those who take tremendous risks on the front lines and keep residents safe.