It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Charlotte. I don’t know about you, but I feel like this Christmas is very limited. The things I most enjoy about Christmas involve getting together with family and friends, worshiping and even a little bit of shopping, but we can’t really do much of that this year. The joy of Christmas just seems to be fading and certainly our patience is running thin with so many things.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, my heart has gone out to the health care workers and first responders in our communities. They are under a tremendous about of pressure, stress and exposure during these difficult times. Someone shared an article with me about the literal dangers some doctors and nurses face because of people’s response to the changes in care during this pandemic. I have family and friends that are healthcare workers and I find this very concerning. If there were ever a time when we should be expressing our thanks and appreciation for the sacrifices these caregivers give, it is now.

My son-in-law is a Marine and I have a huge appreciation for our servicemen. I know from my daughter the commitment these soldiers and their families have to this country. I never miss the opportunity to express my appreciation to them with a word of thanks and I have even been blessed to buy a meal or two for them when I see them in restaurant. I know from my son-in-law how thankful they are when people share their appreciation with them. I want to encourage all of us to do the same with our first responders, nurses, doctors and all healthcare workers. They are on the front line of this pandemic and need our support and thanks. Remember they have to make hard decisions every day about risking their lives to care for us and sacrificing time with their families to protect them from exposure. Their sacrifice should not go unnoticed or unappreciated!