Castle Rock April 2020

EDITOR'STAKE COMMUNITY We are in unprecedented times. The global pandemic that is COVID-19 has thrown our world upside down and left us asking more questions than we have answers for. Almost worse than the actual virus itself is the uncertainty of it all - will our economy recover, when will we be able to go back to work to support our family, will we have a job to go back to? For many of the small businesses here in Castle Rock, the answers to those questions could mean certain ruin.

In these precarious weeks and months that follow, our instinct might be to gather what's "ours", hunker down, and ride out the storm. We pray the ill effects have a minimal impact on our lives and the lives of those we love. Our will to survive and desire to protect ourselves is a strong force. And of course, Social Distancing is the hottest phrase to come around since YOLO drove us all crazy! But what about our neighbors? How are they doing?

Now don't misunderstand me, I am not advocating for civil disobedience in the face of the guidelines that are asking us to responsibly assist in slowing the spread of the virus. I believe it is of the utmost importance and view those that are disregarding it as selfish and/or reckless. But I don't believe this is an issue with only two sides. How can we protect ourselves and still serve our neighbor? How can we solidify our own incomes and help mitigate the effects of this pandemic in our community?

I have talked with so many great people over the last several days. People who have been selfless, compassionate heros. They have thought of others before themselves and performed acts of kindness and charity that make our great community so unique.

I'm sure there have been countless others that have gone unseen and unheralded as well. Whether it's been ordering dinner at a local restaurant online to make sure they are getting customers, delivering toilet paper to an elderly neighbor, sewing masks for the local hospital, or forgiving debts and financial obligations to ease someone's burdens, the people of Castle Rock are amazing. We are so grateful for the chance to rub shoulders with some of these great people.

While this is a trying time, let's remember what wonderful blessings we have around us.

The technology of today helps us stay connected during quarantine; the people of our community are second to none; and of course, the amazing gift of time with our families is now something we have in abundance!

8 SEARCHCASTLEROCK | APRIL 2020