I work in the healthcare system. For some time now, we’ve been witnessing many incredible acts of generosity and numerous expressions of appreciation directed at us, since we’re “on the front lines.”
Although all of this really touches me, honestly, I feel a bit uncomfortable about it all. First of all, because I’m not on the clinical front lines. I deeply admire everyone who has chosen a clinical profession and who saves lives. They truly do incredible work. As for me, I work in an office. Having to work during a pandemic was a possibility I considered when I chose the healthcare system as my field. I made that decision knowing full well what it entailed.
However, even though I still have to go to work every day and my job is important, I don’t feel like I deserve any more encouragement than the rest of the world.
To be honest, I don’t really envy the rest of the population right now. I even consider myself a bit lucky. I still head out to work every morning, I run into my coworkers (from a distance), and I work in my office, in silence. My routine hasn’t really been disrupted.
There are plenty of other important jobs that deserve our attention and a line of honor. Starting with those who make up these famous lines of honor with sound, engines, and lights. I’m talking about police officers, firefighters, paramedics, tow truck drivers, and so on. Who honks at them? Those security guards who deal with unruly individuals, those grocery store clerks who stock the shelves, and those cashiers who handle our goods and our money. Who welcomes them at the entrance to their workplace?
Beyond their status as “professionals,” I believe we should congratulate and highlight the contributions of these individuals. Millions of people are going through difficult times—times even harder than mine, as I continue to work.
Has anyone thought to thank all those parents who are staying home with their children, trying to entertain and educate them while also working? BRAVO!
Has anyone thought to support all the people who have lost a loved one in recent weeks—people who haven’t been able to gather with their loved ones to get through these difficult times together or hold them in their arms?
Has anyone thought to encourage single parents who have to go out with their children to do essential shopping, often enduring the judgmental stares of others who don’t understand their reality?
Has anyone thought to comfort those who are sick or injured, whose surgeries have been postponed and who must endure pain for an as-yet-undetermined period of time?
Has anyone thought to thank all those people who are truly following the guidelines, who miss their family, friends, and coworkers? These people, who feel lonely and isolated, with no contact other than by phone or video, also deserve thanks and encouragement.
To those who have a loved one hospitalized or in a long-term care facility and cannot visit them, I can only imagine your distress.
To all the husbands, wives, partners, and children of those on the front lines who must hold the household together—often on their own—WOW!
In short, I tip my hat to you—to all those who are feeling the impact of this pandemic, whose routines have been turned upside down, and who are going through all kinds of emotions. BRAVO, THANK YOU!!
And what about you—what situations or people do you think deserve some encouragement?
*Note: This text reflects my personal opinion!