It goes without saying that this past year has been a chaotic whirlwind. From the empty aisles of toilet paper to the rising online shopping addictions, the COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented time of change for our entire community. 

With schools being remote and businesses shutting down or being forced to adapt to new strategies, it is natural to be frustrated, angered and faced with many other emotions. However, that being said, it is crucial that we all express the sentiment of gratitude.

 On behalf of the LION staff, we want to take a step back and share a big thank you to all those essential workers that have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety of their community. We want to send gratification towards those who simply continue to show up to work, especially given the life-threatening circumstances.

Whether you are working on the frontlines treating COVID-19 or keeping the public and community areas sanitized, any form of support received is forever appreciated. As sad as it may be that it has taken a worldwide pandemic for many to acknowledge the hard work you put into your duties, we want to make it evident that those early mornings and long night shifts do not go unnoticed; your dedication is the glue that is holding everything together. 

And to the consumers and citizens who may be on the receiving end of these operations and services, remember that this is a hard time for everyone. Be cognizant of those that surround you and learn to be flexible and understanding of the circumstances. It’s not that hard to be a decent human being. Now is not the time to yell at the teenager working on minimum wage or throw a tantrum in the middle of a grocery store for not having a specific item in stock. 

People are putting their lives at risk so you can continue to provide for your family and support your wellbeing. Therefore, don’t be afraid to give a helping hand when needed. Even just saying a little “thank you” every now and then can completely alter the outlook of someone’s day. 

A sense of community is crucial nowadays, and the workers who have helped to make our world go round in a time where everyone assumed it stopped deserve a moment of thanks. Although they are important, it is not simply just the doctors, nurses, and scientists, but also the bus drivers, supermarket employees, teachers, and so many more that are the key to the infrastructure of our nation. 

So once again, thank you to those who not only work to keep us safe but attempt to provide normalcy in the whirlwind that is these unprecedented times.