Barbara Sharp: Grateful for those offering hope, help

I want to add my voice to those who are expressing gratitude to the many, many people in so many walks of life who are offering help and hope during these times.

I’m grateful to the medical workers, pharmacy and grocery store personnel, hardware store workers, restaurant workers and deliverers, other retail businesses offering pick-up and/or delivery, gas station attendants, Gazette staff and delivery people, bank tellers, postal workers, utility and sanitation and transportation workers, teachers who are finding new ways to connect with their students, and our police and fire department personnel.

I’m thankful for my neighbors, many of whom I see when I walk outside for exercise and fresh air, while always keeping a safe distance. We can’t hug or shake hands, but we can wave, smile, talk, and offer help and encouragement to one another. Many of these neighbors are making much-needed hospital masks and volunteering in other ways.

And let us not forget the package store workers. Thanks to them, I’m able to raise a glass to you all.

Barbara Sharp

Northampton