The new normal … at least for now




 

 

If you had a rough February, it’s probably nothing compared to how your March went.

With COVID-19 spreading across the country, each and every one of us has had a steep learning curve and been forced to adapt to life in a manner we never dreamed about just a few weeks ago.

Understandably there has been much hand-wringing and trepidation over what the coming days hold, but if the last few weeks are any indication, there is a silver lining in the midst of this unprecedented situation we find ourselves in.

As news began to trickle out from Austin about restrictions being put into place, our local economy began what is arguably the biggest and fastest adjustment to doing business that has ever transpired. Restaurants began curbside, delivery and drive thru service where it never existed. Grocery stores ramped up orders and streamlined getting products into the public’s hands. Schools started feeding thousands of students via drive thru and delivery options. And while the list of changes to what we consider routine could go on and on, the amazing part of this is that society made most of these adjustments in 24- 48 hours.

In the local government sector, law enforcement leaders met and discussed contingencies. Officers took whatever role was thrown at them. Supplies were inventoried and shared when necessary. We reached out to our local businesses including restaurants, hotels and churches, but the message was not just how first responders would be here for our residents. The message came through to us in a loud and clear manner that our residents would be here for us. Our medical partners made sure police had at least a modest supply of protective equipment. Our restaurants brought food or offered coffee to first responders and health care workers. Our retailers made sure that we did not lack the necessities. In the overwhelming majority of our interactions with people, they attacked the problem with smiles on their faces.

It has been a picture of unity that crosses all political, economic, and racial lines in a way we haven’t seen since September 11, 2001.

Tom Bodett is quoted as having said, “They say a person needs just three things to be truly happy in this world: Someone to love, something to do, and something to hope for.”

As we observe friends form impromptu partnerships to accomplish the tasks that need to be addressed immediately, as families spend an unprecedented amount of time together at home, teaching our own kids and cooking our own meals and as we work toward the day we return to a sense of normalcy, I believe that we have covered all three of the above.

While we keep pressing into uncharted waters, our thanks goes out to all of those that we have seen swing into action to keep our county functioning. Your roles are varied, but our common goal remains unchanged. Our community’s ability and willingness to do what it takes to get the job done continues to inspire us and remind us why our part of Texas is the best part of Texas.

Stay safe.

ERIC KAISER is the Chief of Police for the Jourdanton (TX) Police Department and a Master Texas Peace Officer.

One response to “The new normal … at least for now”

  1. Shirley Van Horn Wenske says:

    I’m so proud of our community and how we are abiding and waiting. People helping people. Great article Chief!

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