By Alan Ashley
While the coronavirus has created unforeseen changes in our lives, like school and business closures, I thought I would give some perspectives on how it has changed me on several levels.
Some of you may have similar experiences; some may have a new insight after reading this article.
You may know that I am one of the contributing photographers to Chelsea Update, but I have a full-time job. I have been a USPS letter carrier in Ann Arbor for 26 years.
We are deemed “essential personnel” because the postal service is considered an essential service. For instance, we deliver prescription drugs daily.
The USPS was the only government agency open for business the day after the 9/11 attacks. The USPS has continued delivering mail and packages through 9/11, anthrax threats, the 2003 East Coast blackout, and other national incidents.
Letter carriers will continue to deliver through anything else in the future. So there’s no need to worry about the mail stopping, remember our motto of “neither rain, nor snow, or sleet.”
While many people are able to work from home, or be paid while at home, some do not have that opportunity and sit home with no income in their future.
I have been a freelance photographer for over 30 years. Recently, I have been covering events in Chelsea, but occasionally still attend other sporting events. Some of the photographers I have been in contact through the years, working at these events is their sole source of income. While there are no sports going on, my thoughts have turned to those photographers and people who cannot work at their jobs due to this crisis.
We have all been affected due to the school closings. While most know they will be attending one of the schools in the Chelsea School District next year, the Class of 2020 is in a position of an uncertain future.
As the parent of one of those seniors, there are many questions with no answers to give.
When will they go back to school and see their friends?
Will there be graduation?
Will they have to go to summer school?
How will this affect their attending college in the fall?
The answers will eventually come, but when is another question.
As long as everyone continues to wash their hands, practice social distancing, and helping those in need, we will get through this crisis.
Be respectful to others, help those individuals at a high risk and get the supplies they may need.
Let’s show everyone why Chelsea is a great community.
