This is a “Thank you” message to all those shopkeepers, cashiers, food producers, delivery persons, health-care workers, et al., who wear face masks when in public; and to all those who practice social-distancing when possible and appropriate.

Christians know that Christ always showed compassion to the poor and the needy. He united himself with them when he said, “Whatever you did to the least brothers of mine, you did to me.” In this time of a pandemic, the most vulnerable include the sick, the elderly, the home-bound, those with underlying health conditions, the unemployed, the uninsured, and many others. Hospitalization for COVID-19 can bankrupt a family, rendering them the least of our brothers and sisters.

Faith in the young

As an elderly white woman who attempts to follow the teachings of Jesus, I have come to the late understanding that, by virtue of living seven-plus decades in a dominant culture that privileges me over people of color, I am a racist.

Recently I heard Dave Lucas speak. I was impressed with his knowledge of the issues and his compassion for people. His vision is to give voice to all people in the 3rd District, and to work for better economic policies that support jobs and reduce tax burdens.

We are all from the same place, our mother's womb. However, once we emerge from that womb our life experiences, expectations and aspirations can be very different depending on our race, religion, gender identity and where we were born on this planet.