We could have lost them on three different occasions.

To a lengthy battle with breast cancer.

To a life-altering, health emergency.

To the recklessness of a violent crime spree.

But, thank God above, my parents are still here now. 

And we will do everything in our power to keep it that way.

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My parents are both in their 70s. 

But they are both smart. 

They are staying in as much as possible. 

Limited grocery runs.

And outside only to garden and walk.

Thirty to 40 years ago? 

Things would have been much different. 

You see, they both would have been on the very front lines of this pandemic. 

For YOU. 

My mom, as the head cardiovascular nurse at our local, renowned hospital, treating and saving countless lives. My dad, a chemist, working overtime to create drugs to help, protect, and treat so many. Possibly you.

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And here we sit. 

Under a huge blanket of uncertainty in our world. 

Hanging over their existence, just like yours.

As this pandemic extends its grasp to our part of the world, we have a choice.

And while most are heeding the advice of the top medical and government officials, some are not. 

Maybe some just don’t have the mindset of this affecting anyone so close to their hearts. Maybe some are still naive and not considering those most vulnerable. Maybe some are just too young and immature to understand. 

But, here’s the thing . . .

You don’t know my mom and dad but so very many do. They have touched the lives of thousands. They are parents, including to an angel baby. They are grandparents, to 10. They spent their time on the frontlines for decades, caring for countless souls. And they mean the world to me. 

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So, the next time you consider . . .

Gathering at the beaches . . .

Heading to the store with a sore throat . . .

Not keeping your distance in public . . .

Thinking this is nothing . . .

Please remember, those most at-risk have put in their time. 

Many retired nurses, doctors, police, chemists, scientists and more. 

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Many have cared for the ones who matter most in YOUR life. 

Many have spent their lives saving others.

And all, if told to do something simple to protect you, would comply without hesitation.

Maybe they don’t matter to you, but they are everything to me.