Changing the calendar doesn’t automatically make everything better, but it can’t hurt. Even in times of crisis, a new year beacons hope and optimism.
During the new year, it is important for all of us to maintain a positive outlook on the future. 2020 started out great, then went downhill quickly. Let’s hope that any rough start to 2021 will be quickly followed by an upward climb. Until it does, all any of us can do is our very best to stay safe and sane.
In 2021, I urge all our readers to take care of themselves and their families. Please take the virus seriously and take proper precautions, but don’t allow yourself to live in fear. Make life as normal as possible.
Please support local community businesses. They need your help more than ever. Buy local. Order takeout food, purchase gift cards, and conduct your online shopping through local merchants. If you are able, please consider donating your time or funds to local nonprofits. These organizations do wonderful things in our community, especially for the less fortunate. Support the arts. Statewide restrictions have completely shut down our thriving arts community. Support local artists, musicians, and venues by purchasing music, merchandise, or gift cards. When the restrictions are lifted, plan to attend live events again.
Please thank the many frontline doctors, nurses, medical, and support staff who are working around the clock to keep us healthy. Thank and appreciate all who are working hard to keep us stocked with food and necessities at the many grocery stores, pharmacies, and other retail locations around our community. Thank delivery personnel and truck drivers who work tirelessly to deliver groceries, supplies, and medicine. Thank our fire, EMT, and police personnel who are working to keep us safe and secure. Thank our teachers, who are doing their very best to continue teaching our children both in person and remotely. Appreciate all who are trying so hard to maintain normalcy for our community in very strange times.
A few extra prayers for those dealing with loneliness, pain, and suffering could also be helpful.
Together, we can overcome anything. In the new year, do not allow political differences to tear us apart. Learn to appreciate, acknowledge, and articulate all points of view. Truly appreciate your freedom and liberty as Americans.
2021 could be a wonderful year. Do your best to see that it is.
Have a safe, healthy, and prosperous year.
Happy New Year!
Bernard A. Oravec
Publisher
