Show some love to local business
For 5 months the word “open” has meant so many different things to businesses of every size and in all industries. Everyone has been working to figure out what “open” means to them.
In the early stages of COVID, one month did not seem too terrible, we all thought — “we can do this.” You figured out how to work from home, use Zoom, participate in your child’s schooling, cook 3 meals a day, and get creative on securing hard-to-find grocery items. We could adapt for that one month.
Fast forward from the middle of March to now. Now we wonder — “can we do this” — working from home alone, Zoom fatigue, do our kids go back to school or not, tired of cooking, and not understanding why I still can’t find a variety of canned vegetables at the grocery store.
We have each dealt with our own personal challenges and have recognized the small business person is dealing with theirs — but they are not just theirs — yes, their own family is impacted, but they are also looking out for their other “family” — their employees. Some small businesses have remained open during the pandemic, others closed but have reopened and then there are some that have not reopened yet or are still trying to determine if at all.
As I have watched the transition over the last several months, there is something amazing to watch — the ingenuity and the creativity of the small businessperson, although always present, really has shined during these uncertain times. The most energizing thing for me through all of this is the tenacity of our small business members. Yes, they are stressed and frustrated. They are still financially struggling and need every penny and all the support you can provide to them, but they did what they needed to do to stay “open” whatever that looks like for them, so that they could be here for you. They have been there for you before — providing donations for your kids’ schools, supporting the local little league teams, donating items for non-profit fundraisers, etc., etc. It is time to return the favor!
“Open?” It meant, and still means, different things to different people. But in August, a large majority of operations are again open, and these businesses still need our support and some now have more options to serve you then before. Know that every decision for businesses during this time continues to be a hard one to make. But these decisions have also been out of the box and game changers for some businesses. Talk to your favorite local businesses and ask them what they need right now and find out how you can help so they can make it through this time and continue to be there and remain one of your favorite businesses.
Let us show them some love!