WRITE TEAM: The good that came from COVID-19

Before I rant, like a grumpy old man in future columns, let’s reflect on some of the things learned from this pandemic. Although it drove some to the edge of madness, the time to slow down and reflect on our lives and the good in people, is a gift.

As I see so many using the rainbow as a sign of hope again, it is encouraging. Maybe those who never read about the first rainbow in the Bible in the book of Genesis will turn to it and learn God’s promise to man that the rainbow represents. Hope and caring is present in so many commercials by big companies these days.

Time and time again we hear thanks to essential workers. Sometimes this comes with words. Other times we have seen it in lights, hearts in windows, music, pounding on pots and pans from the kitchen, posters, and other creative forms of showing love for those who go to work risking their lives in these uncertain times. Speaking of those brave souls in hospitals, nursing homes, or prisons and jails, we see them not only risking their lives, but providing the human contact to some who do not survive this virus and can’t have any contact with their family. We see retired health professionals volunteering to return to work and help fill much needed positions.

I, as a dog lover, see dog owners bring their cute canines out for a walk. Then, I saw on television, a large animal shelter with one of their three units totally empty, workers standing outside the empty kennels with the doors wide open, as people rescued dogs.

The concern for our fellow man, and gestures of kindness being shown on the news can’t help but move people. As a fairly sentimental guy, my tear ducts are exercised to near exhaustion. Stories of someone stepping forward with large tips to those people who would soon be temporarily losing their jobs, and a person even donating his entire stimulus check to a favorite eatery to help those employees laid off are great.

I hope for those who need help from this virus for any reason they find caring people to help them make it through this time. I know not everyone will go to agencies that can help them, or even know how to do so. Some of us who could make it without the stimulus checks hopefully will find someone who could use the help. Although the checks were a good idea, they were more trying to buy reelection than anything else. It seems in many cases those businesses that received checks continued to operate normally as they were seen as essential businesses, so it only made the owners richer. Others violating restrictions received a local check.

The most beautiful thing coming out of this to me is the wonderful, caring, and thoughtful gestures that I see the children displaying. The future is bright even if this pandemic lasts for a little longer than we would like. God bless. 

Rodney Verdine, hated a little less by his brother-in-law, but loved by his wife, Marie, can be reached at tsloup@shawmedia,com.