We’ve now passed 500,000 deaths from COVID-19 in the United States. 500,000 stories. 500,000 dreams. 500,000 people we loved.
What we don’t know, what we can’t know yet, are the hundreds of thousands of healthcare workers, family members, and loved ones who walked with them every step of this heartbreaking journey. What we don’t know, what we can’t know yet, is the depth of grief, the trauma of bearing witness to their final passage, and the heroics of care that these brave ones gave without hesitation in this moment of global crisis.
Today, I, we, simply say thank you.
To all who have lost someone, we surround you with love and support. You are not alone.
To all who are still struggling for recovery, we send you healing energy and prayers for restored health.
To all who care for the dying, we thank you for your kindness. We marvel at your strength. We honor your fatigue.
To the activist among us, those who speak, preach, march, write, pray, fast, organize, advocate, and strategize, we see the way you are remaking the world for the common good. We celebrate your vision and join you in the movement.
Today, let’s remember the trauma we have lived, honor those we have lost and recognize how we have suffered. That’s enough. In fact, that is everything.
As a reminder: You are loved by a God who has loved you, loves you now, and will always love you. This is the good news which brings us new life. Thanks be to God.
We are in this together,
Cameron