A year to forget, a year to remember

It does seem somewhat ironic that the final column of this year would be in an issue of “The Beacon” dated Dec. 31, 2020. I tried really hard to come up with a headline for this week’s column that would be insightful and something you would remember. You know, one of those headlines that people talk about for months and years to come. You will just have to accept my feeble attempt. And perhaps the headline should go the way of the dodo bird anyways considering this year.

What will we take away from this year? Sure, we can all ponder our own thoughts and struggles as we dealt with all that the COVID-19 pandemic brought to bear. We could assign blame to our leaders if we want. But why? It doesn’t solve anything does it? All the time and energy that we have wasted on that could be used to actually help someone that is really struggling to get through this crisis.

Our populated world will continue to face these challenges. A new strain of the virus?

I am getting off track. The people that are the real heroes of this global pandemic are not the politicians. Would all health care workers please stand up? How about all of our first responders? Let’s ask all of our teachers and administrators to stand tall and be applauded as well. I truly don’t know how you did it. I really don’t.

How about all of the parents and guardians, grandparents and relatives that watched the youngsters at home and assisted them with their remote learning? What about everyone that stepped in to help those that are “technology challenged” during this crisis? I have difficulty just getting on Zoom for gosh sakes. Big brothers and big sisters stand tall!

Let’s recognize our small business owners – we know that this year has been an extremely difficult one to maneuver through – your tenacity and perseverance is worthy of applause as well.

There are many that will have an empty spot at the table this holiday season as the COVID-19 virus has taken its toll on our very own community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.

For others, a loved one may be in the midst of their own fight against the COVID-19 virus. To all of those in the healthcare world that are helping them heal, bless you.

And last but certainly not least, let’s remember our elderly, the shut-ins, the lonely and all of those that will be without their loved ones during this season as we celebrate the holidays in a different way.

When we raise our glass to welcome this New Year, the words “To Your Health” couldn’t ring truer. Happy New Year!

Category: Mark's Musings, Opinion