While many people are currently working from home due to COVID-19, there are many others who are still going to work every day to keep essential businesses and services running. Health care professionals are on the front line, working tirelessly to help those who have the virus, as well as those with other health problems. Grocery store employees work to keep shelves well-stocked and provide necessities for their customers. Delivery personnel are working overtime as more people place their orders online. In today’s climate, these workers should be highly favored and valued for their willingness to put themselves at risk simply by doing their jobs.

The struggle is real

While COVID-19 is a pandemic affecting all people in the United States in a multitude of ways, communities of color are some of the most devastated. A recent documentary, The Color of COVID, highlights how the virus has spread quickly in these areas due to the disproportionate numbers of individuals with low-wage jobs for essential businesses and the lack of preventive supplies, such as masks, gowns and gloves. With so many underinsured and underemployed, the effects of COVID-19 are overwhelming. 

The luxury of social distancing 

For those who are able to work from home during this time or do not have work responsibilities, there are several ways to honor the essential workers. We can show gratitude in our interactions with them and act to make sure they are equipped with the necessary safety equipment to stay healthy. Citizens can contact their legislators to make sure employees are cared for during these trying times and, once this pandemic has passed, we can make sure those who have lost their lives are honored in our local communities. Social distancing may seem annoying to most of us, but if we recognize it as a luxury, we will have a deeper respect for those who are taking a risk each day they go to work.

Question of the day: What are you willing to risk for others?
Focal scriptures: Philippians 2:19-30; 2 Samuel 24:18-25; Hebrews 13:1-16

For a complete lesson on this topic visit LinC.