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Most people are looking forward to things returning to ‘normal’.  I must admit I am one of those.

I do ask myself regularly though, what will ‘normal’ look like going forward.

From the onset of this pandemic to today, it has been refreshing and heartwarming to see our community pull together to support each other. Whether it be ordering meals to go from local restaurants to helping a neighbor in need, it is evident what this community means to everyone.

As we begin to inch towards reopening businesses, on one hand I am excited to see these activities return so people can get back to earning a living, and on the other hand I am concerned if we have done enough to prepare.

The good thing about this time is that we have the choice to get out or to stay at home. We can assess for ourselves what is best for us. No one is forcing me to go out to eat or go to the store. There are plenty of options available for me should I just want to stay at home.

What I will say though, is that my approach to my daily activities has changed. I now drive around with a bottle of hand sanitizer and a mask in my car so I can use them if the need arises. We limit the places we are taking our kids for the time being. We are trying very hard to control the things that we can and also trying to educate our kids on why we are doing the things we are doing.

Increased cleaning and use of PPE may be a way of life for the foreseeable future, and I can live with that. It is a reasonable request to ensure the safety and health of my family.

What is paramount though is getting our local economy (and national economy) back moving in the right direction. It is a fine line that we must walk balancing the need for businesses to be open with the safety of our community members. It’s also something we all play a role in. There are many things we can do, and are doing, to curb the spread of this virus.

We must remember that even the smallest precaution can make a big impact. Be safe, be smart, and be understanding. We are all in this together.

 

Chris Kovatch is a resident of Orange County. You can reach him at news@orangeleader.com