I’ve been spending the morning thinking about the conversations I’ve had with nonprofit leaders the past few days. The word that I keep thinking of is “sacrifice.” Our society is eager to honor military service and thank soldiers for their sacrifice on behalf of the common good. We go out of our way to say thank you to those that wage war.
We don’t say “thank you” to those who wage peace enough. Employees at charities are every bit as heroic as our medical workers right now. Food banks, suicide hotlines, and substance abuse support systems are stretched thin. The stories from every organization leave one in tears with the struggle taking place in the lives of those they serve.
Furthermore, we don’t even consider the sacrifice made by the working poor. The economically disadvantaged are shouldering the majority of pain right now to keep the country healthy. What I have had to give up is minuscule to what others have had to give up. The grief in households across this country is profound, and whatever we can do to alleviate the stress of people is imperative.
Call your favorite nonprofit. Thank employees for their work. Then ask how you can best support them. Reach out to neighbors and friends and check on them. Show kindness to the people you talk to online.
Hope is always our greatest ally in times of trouble. It comes in the form of a friend.
If you are reading this and you’re out of work, I want you to know that you are seen and appreciated even if you are struggling. Your job was essential to you, and you are worth so much more to the world than your employment status. Your family, your friends, and this community loves you, and we thank you. If you need help, reach out to them. If there is anything I can do to help make your burden lighter, please message me.
