Toward a stronger sense of community

As I have adjusted to the new COVID 19 lifestyle, I have made an effort to keep things in perspective. In doing so, I think back to my parents and grandparents who lived through The Great Depression followed immediately by World War II. There was fear and anxiety, but somehow Americans found the courage and tenacity to face each day with a resolve to survive and ultimately prosper.

My grandparents had a small farm located on one of the busiest roads leading from the southern states to Chicago. I remember my grandmother telling me of the many families that traveled that road with all their possessions heading north to try to find work. Often they would stop at the farm. The father would walk up to my grandparents' door, remove his hat and ask if he could work for a meal to feed his family.

My grandmother added that although they had very little money, they were lucky because their farm allowed them to raise vegetables and fruits and animals to keep the family well fed. Their strong Christian faith demanded they share their bounty with those less fortunate. It was not uncommon for many other farm families to do the same.

So, as my family and I deal with the inconveniences brought on by COVID-19, I hope the DNA I share with my parents and grandparents will allow me to weather this temporary storm and come out the better for it. I further hope that all of us will come away from this experience with a stronger sense of community.

The Serenity Prayer: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference."

Dave Carrell

Campton Hills