I’m guessing most people would appreciate a two-hour deep-tissue massage about now.
If only it could be done remotely.
Between the pandemic, politics, and natural disasters, the news can be overwhelming these days.
At such times, it helps to count our blessings.
I’ll start.
1. I’m thankful so few people in Allen County have contracted COVID-19. At 49 reported cases, we’re still an island of relative safety compared to neighboring counties. I give the credit to our area leaders for taking the science of the virus seriously and for asking people to do all they can to prevent its spread by practicing good hygiene, social distancing and wearing face masks. By evidence of the numbers, those measures appear to work.
2. Our businesses are hanging in there thanks to customer loyalty. Fingers crossed, the worst is behind us and we’re counting on the upcoming holiday season to pull us through. This year, I can’t wait to get into the Christmas spirit.
3. Even in my circumscribed life these days, I still feel positive energy. The news that Peerless Windows plans to open a new manufacturing facility in Iola couldn’t come at a better time. Management predicts that will translate into 120 new jobs in five years. It’s a huge testament that industries continue to view southeast Kansas not only as a good place to do business but also a good place to live.
4. I’m thankful for all the federal grants making their way to our area businesses during these hard times through the assistance of Thrive Allen County. Lisse Regehr and her team have been essential to helping individuals get the necessary paperwork done to qualify for grants large and small. For many, it’s made the difference of being able to keep their doors open for business.
5. I was particularly struck this week by comments from a young Californian, Anya Poplavska, who recently spent a month here volunteering. In her interactions with locals, Anya said she was impressed with our sense of community, evidenced by people helping deliver Meals on Wheels and getting involved with the recycling program. “I never see that where I’m from. No one goes out of their way to get to know their neighbor or volunteer. It’s really nice.”
SO NOW I see it’s been a good week. How did that happen? As they say, an attitude of gratitude can work wonders.
