All systems are go for spring: maple trees are budding, crocuses are popping out of the ground, the dormant beige grass is greening, the robins have returned, and the temperature in East Amherst, NY this morning was 66 degrees Fahrenheit. Lake Effect season is hopefully passed, and the long cold grey days of January and February are behind us.
But…we’re all advised to stay put at home as North America battles a virus that is putting a damper on the hopefulness of spring. As our 1st responders and health care providers continue to do a heroic job of battling the virus, many people are acting in an admirable way by making the best use of their time which has taken on a different dimension during this crisis. But a visit to the grocery stores over the past week have shown that there are those people who only think of themselves first by hoarding products and needlessly creating shortages of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, cleaning wipes, and chicken and beef products.
As Mr. Roger’s advised children in the aftermath of September 11, look for the helpers. In this time, let’s be thankful for our first responders, healthcare workers and those who when given a bowl of lemons are making such awesome lemonade.
If you are spending more time at home, be observant of your outdoor surroundings and enjoy the awe inspiring emergence of spring. Discover the opportunities of which you would be deprived in normal times.
