I sit here this morning, having just looked at my son's schedule for his freshman year of high school...which he'll be doing remotely from home. Our daughter's schedule is still in limbo for 8th grade, as the district thought the plan for full-time in school would work, but now because so many other local districts have gone virtual, there are a number of teachers who have exhausted all options for childcare for their own children, to no avail. The school board is meeting tomorrow night to determine if they can figure out a solution, otherwise they will also have to make the tough decision to go fully remote. I have been furloughed by my employer since June 1, and with the unemployment stimulus package ending, my income just dropped over 50%. Business travel has no clear future at this point, until COVID-19 is under control, so I have no idea when I'll go back.
I say all this not to complain, as I TRULY understand why these decisions are having to be made, both for health and economically. It's tough times for everyone right now, but I definitely recognize it's tougher for some than others. I recognize the privilege we have of living multi-generationally...with both my parents and my younger sister, all on one budget; which means that we have 5 adult incomes combined to pay our bills. I don't have to worry about where our next meal or if the mortgage will be paid. We may not pay off as much debt each month, but we're able to meet the necessities without question. I am also blessed to be able to be at home while my children have been out of school, as well as for remote learning. Many parents do not have this option. We have been able to start this business during the pandemic, which has been an absolute blessing, and is helping to keep our children in sports, and cover our bills and pay for things like school supplies and extras. We are so thankful for your continued support!
With all of that recognized, I also realize that there are many who are not in my shoes. Who can't pay their rent, don't know where their next meal will come from, and are in dire straits. They don't have family members who can help out monetarily, and are many times working the "essential worker" jobs, putting themselves at high risk for contacting COVID-19. I don't claim to have all the answers, but try to help friends & family if they need it, as well as recognize that although my life is not "normal" right now, it could also be a lot harder. Perspective can truly bring you to your knees. Prayer makes a difference, so let's all be praying for our friends, communities, leaders, and country. We need CHANGE. Unity begins with U-N-I...let's be united now more than ever. <3
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