This is Euclid

I consider myself to be a reasonably intelligent man that looks at the bigger picture.  Being a minister, I am used to looking hopefully into the future, knowing that today’s difficulties will pass, and the sun will rise again tomorrow.  Never in my wildest dreams could I picture our current situation. 

I know that I don’t have to tell you that this pandemic has touched everyone in profound and life changing ways.  Childcare and schooling, elder care and medical appointments, money coming in and money going out, counseling and support groups, layoffs and the desperate need for employees to fill essential positions and the list goes on and on. 

And still, we are blessed.  We are blessed to live in this country with excellent medical care.  We here in Euclid are especially fortunate to live in a region with lots of hospitals, some of the best in the country.  As we consider our good fortune in this area,  we must thank all of the doctors, nurses, hospital staff and first responders and ask that God keep them safe and healthy. 

We have grocery stores and drug stores that are constantly being stocked with healthy fruits and vegetable, fresh meats and breads, medicines, toilet paper and paper towels,  etc.  These stores and their employees are working hard to serve our needs.  The employees that work at these stores are risking their health to serve us.  How can we repay them for their service?  Be kind.  Don’t hoard.  Be patient.  Only go out when necessary, try to shop once a week.  Thank them.  Literally say “Thank you”  to every employee that crosses your path.  These employees and stores have always deserved our appreciation.  They do important work.  They deserve it now more than ever. 

We have restaurants and caterers that are providing delicious meals to the community.  They have adapted the way they do business to keep us safe.  Their meals provide us with one less thing to worry about…what’s for dinner.  At a time when we are all feeling stressed, it is a blessing to be able to make a phone call and order a hot, delicious dinner.  At the same time we are being served, we are helping to keep these businesses above water in this difficult time.  In many cases we aren’t talking about business owners.  We are talking about friends.  Friends that support our fundraisers, sponsor our sports teams, welcome us for our important family celebrations, etc.  Take a minute to recognize them on Facebook or Nextdoor.   Again, thank these folks….the business owners and employees. 

While we are talking about meals, thanks go out to the Euclid Hunger Center.  They continue to serve the residents of Euclid.   The schools are also feeding children.  These are critically important lifelines for our residents. If you are inclined, reach out to contact either of these organizations to see if they need some volunteers. 

How many times have we said, “I wish I had more time to catch up with family and friends?”  Now is the time.  Make that phone call.  Catch up on the family news.  Call your grandparents and parents.  Send a card or an email.  Have the kids color a picture and send it to brighten their day.  There is a silver lining to every cloud.  Perhaps slowing down, catching our breath and reassessing our priorities is a benefit that we will realize when this is all over.

In this age of technology, there is no need for anyone to be isolated.  We hear a lot about the term, “social distancing”.  I believe that is the wrong term.  I think we should be talking about physical distancing but socially connecting.   We have to make a special effort to stay connected.  Watch out for your neighbor whenever possible.  If they aren’t connected digitally, make a call, drop a note have the kids color a picture.  After all, this is Euclid.  We are Euclid.