Thankfulness During a Worldwide Pandemic
I'm taking off my "pharmacist" hat and putting on my "average human being" hat for this post. Mostly, anyway. One can never really change who one is, I guess, but at least we can change the focus for a while.
Thanksgiving, 2020
Who'd have thought that we'd still be distancing ourselves from loved ones after nearly 9 months? Honestly, I'd hoped for at least a small gathering of close relatives for Thanksgiving, especially those who live alone. But that's not to be. It's just too risky now, with hospitalizations increasing every day and healthcare workers stretched to the limit. So finding recipes for two instead of 25 is the goal now (and trying not to eat ALL the leftover pie right away....).
So what IS there to be thankful for? Here are a few of the things that came to mind for me:
My family is right there at the top of the list. Can't see them all in person this Thanksgiving, or give hugs, but we can be together in our hearts. I'm thankful for their health and for their commitment to staying safe. And I'm especially thankful for my husband, with whom sharing living space during a pandemic has been a blessing. And, yes, an eye-roll at times (for both of us, I might add), but comforting nonetheless.
You, the readers, followers, and patients of BetterMyMeds, have allowed me to help you on your health journey. I love sharing information that helps you understand how your medicines affect your health, how to communicate more effectively with your doctors, when it's ok to stop taking a medicine or supplement that may not be working for you. Whether you simply read my articles, or have met with me to discuss your health and medications in depth, I will always be grateful for your trust and support, and will do my best to continue earning it.
Can't leave out the sunny, unexpectedly warm weather we've had on several occasions here in Michigan this month. As I write this post, it's nearly 65 degrees outside. On November 20th! How wonderful to be able to go outside without a jacket at this time of year!
I'm blessed by the pharmacists and pharmacy technicians I work closely with at Chelsea Hospital and Jensen's Community Pharmacy in Dexter. I'm proud to be part of a team of professionals so dedicated to the health and well-being of those they serve. And I don't want to leave out all the other healthcare professionals across the nation that show up to work every day despite the risks. You are a blessing to us all.
Thank you to all those who "mask-up" even when it's uncomfortable, and even when some don't believe it's helpful in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Your consideration for those around you is shown by your commitment to following the guidelines that slow the spread.
And there's toilet paper on the grocery store shelves! What more can one ask for?
These are just a few of the things that came to mind as I considered Thanksgiving 2020. I'll probably think of more right after I hit "publish". I hope you, too, can find things to be grateful for this year even though the pandemic keeps us distant from one another. Please share your own thoughts below. As always, you can contact us directly at BetterMyMeds.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, 2020!
“…leftover pie.”…please translate. Apparently I don’t speak that language.
Anyways, very nice post as always, Betty. Yes, sometimes it can be difficult to stop being a pharmacist for a period of time. I think when you do this long enough, it just becomes a part of you.
Like you, I’m grateful for the frontline health care workers who put their own safety on the line while helping countless people who need them.
I’m also grateful that I have stayed employed, without being furloughed or closed down for any amount of time. I know too many people who have not been as fortunate, and have recently spoken with some servers who will be shut down, with no other immediate job opportunities available. These are also the people who will likely miss out on wages and tips during what is traditionally their busiest season. I would encourage everyone who is able to do so, please continue to support your favorite businesses and servers however you can (e.g. carryout for yourself, or purchasing other items/services they may offer).
To say 2020 has been a challenge is a major understatement. Try to be assured that throughout it all, your pharmacists and other health care professionals are committed to your health and well-being. On this site, both Betty and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have; whether it’s about medications, diet, recipes, mental health, vaccine news, or other aspects of your well-being.
Wishing everyone well!
“Leftover pie” – that portion of a pie that everyone wanted but not enough to look like a glutton in front of everyone else. 🙂
I like your thoughts about supporting local businesses. That’s especially important during the holiday season, as you said. It can be so easy to order from Amazon, but in the long run that’ll limit our options, right?
(â—”_â—”)
See, lots of eye-rolls between us, many of which are well-deserved!