Giving thanks

In this dark time of shorter days and big pandemic struggles, it is good to remember there is still much for which to be grateful. Here are a few things we can all (still) be thankful for, nine months into this coronavirus crisis:

The first responders and health care workers and housekeeping staff at clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities and in homes who have been on the front lines for months now and continue to provide the best care possible even when they are most at risk;

The grocery store clerks who have kept shelves stocked and dealt with often less than kind, patient or understanding customers;

Law enforcement and firefighters who continue to do their jobs regardless of a pandemic because crime and fires don’t stop just because there’s a vicious virus around;

The school teachers and administrators who are writing a whole new playbook on how to teach students virtually or meet with them in person and keep everyone safe;

The parents, grandparents and guardians of our communities’ children who are struggling to make ends meet, stay healthy and still ensure the kids do their school work;

The multitude of people who have continued to volunteer in shelters, counseling offices, crisis lines and in nonprofits to help the most vulnerable people in our communities get help during this pandemic;

Our government officials and staff, along with local utility companies like Kit Carson Electric Cooperative, working to keep lights on, water running and basic services going, even when some of their staff end up ill; and

The goodwill of so many people trying to find ways to help others even when they have little themselves.

The Taos News is grateful for:

• Our readers, who keep us on our toes and tell us what they think;

• Our advertisers, who support us even when they have their own financial struggles in this unprecedented time;

• Our staff, who have supported this small community newspaper against all odds and through a mountain of challenges; and

• All of the diverse people who make Taos County and the Enchanted Circle the best place to call home.

May you all have someone to share a little Thanksgiving gratitude with today, even if its virtually or from 6 feet apart with a mask on.

A little food. A few smiles. A warm place to sleep. Another day to live and breathe.

Sometimes this is enough.