File:Empty shelves in the bread aisle - March 2020 at Fred Meyer in Federal Way, Washington, USA (49662769878).jpg

Excellent time to say THANK YOU to our grocery store managers & workers

Grocery store managers and workers continue to go to work during the COVID-19 virus shutdown. They personally do not control the supply of goods, but they are there, they are cheerful, they are doing their personal best, and it shows real heart and dedication.

Stores like Fred Meyers, QFC, Safeway, Hong Kong Market, Trader Joes, Costco, and other chains are always there for us. The workers listen to all the gripping and complaining, and they continue to speak clearly, be pleasing and soothing, and find ways to get us suppled on a daily basis.

These are our neighbors, these are our people, we want them healthy and happy. When we take the effort and tell them how much we appreciate them in these difficult times will be deeply felt by them, especially if we all take the time to tell them and reinforce that good feeling for their service.

Because schools and restaurants, travel and venues are closed -- the demand for food supplies has increased. Their workload and stress levels have increased. They did not foresee this and were not warned it would happen.

Every worker and manager I have spoken with maintained a very high professional level and showed courage even when telling me something was out of stock they expected I wouldn't want to hear it!

The stockers too are doing increased duty at night. When you think about how they feel about not being able to provide a high level of service, well it gives you pause. I wouldn't want to be in their shoes right now stress-wise. Working in public spaces, where there are a lot of people.

Anyway, I thought I'd mention this due to an article I read from a stressed-out manager at a major store writing about how people have been yelling at her staff, who cannot control the supply, or in some areas, the purchase limits.

It's like that old song "If we all work together as a team."