(I am so incredibly proud – and thankful – for our precious daughter, Meredith, and for her blog this week. John and I were blessed to have her home with us for five weeks – and we miss her!! This picture was taken on a windy after dinner walk one evening before she left.)

Thank and Love One Another by Meredith Berger

 I hope all of you, our readers and your families are doing well and staying healthy. The past month has been trying for many, and I know it’s been difficult to remain optimistic. For my blog today, I chose to thank those who are the light through this quarantine, and whose sacrifices should not go unnoticed.

Thank you to the healthcare professionals – our doctors, nurses, techs, first responders, management and everything in between.

Thank you to the public servants – our police officers, fire fighters, administration, elected officials, public works, and all essential personnel.

Thank you to the nonprofits – senior living facilities, housing organizations, and all charities & foundations trying to make a difference in this world.

Thank you to our essential businesses – those still working in their buildings and offices, providing for us daily.

Thank you to the amazing educators, caretakers, business professionals – anyone from your deliveryman to your grocery clerk. Everyone is playing an essential role in this quarantine, and we see you! And we appreciate you!

Thank you to incredible friends who support us through furlough, through loss, through sadness and pain, and who give us reasons to smile throughout the week.

Thank you to parents and guardians – the MVPs for providing shelter, food, and for being incredibly flexible by giving up their normal routines.

Thank you to our communities – our neighbors, religious groups, schools, and anyone helping us to feel safe and loved.

Thank you to our artists and creators for providing distractions and entertainment during this time.

It’s easy to forget that all of us are playing an important part in getting through this, and easy to not show appreciation. Take a moment to be proud of yourself for what you’ve accomplished this week, and to also share gratitude with those who helped.

“I always thank my God for you…” 1 Cor. 1:4

We are all in this together.