“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” – Coretta Scott King

As of my writing this, we are in the midst of a pandemic, with no date set as of my writing this as to when things are expected to change. All we can do is keep informed, keep safe, and listen to reputable information, like from Alberta Health Services.

Out of the darkness, I have seen some light in our community. There are those who banded together to voluntarily help each other out. I am also very impressed with YEG Community Response to COVID19 Facebook group, which quickly grew, with citizens banding together to help each other and complete strangers with deliveries, resources, information, and comfort.

Knowledge is power in emergencies. It is just comforting to know amazing people in our community have bonded together to help. I get tears of pride when I read the comments that someone received a service and how grateful they were. Asking for help can be tough, but there is no judgement within this group.

When things get slowly back to a version of how they were, we will accept a new normal. We will pick ourselves up, and we are going to look back at those who showed compassion and care.

Stay safe, stay well, and remember: you are not alone.

Ian is a columnist with the paper. He lives in the area.