Editor:
We’ve all heard or read this quote more than ever in recent months: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind”.
Many local businesses are announcing their new provincial government mandated polices in efforts to keep their communities safe, their staff employed and their doors open, as much as they can.
We’ve seen their social media posts stating that their decision has been difficult, or perhaps that their decision was a no-brainer. Most businesses are handling the changes gracefully without blame or bias – they simply encourage folks to contact the appropriate government officials regarding the new policies.
A popular downtown shop, for example, has a sign to announce that “wearing is caring,” simply and kindly indicating that customers are welcome if they wear masks indoors, according to public health guidelines.
Throughout the pandemic, we have shopped local and supported small businesses as much as we could, including ordering from our neighbourhood pizza place. After being local regulars since their opening, we had what we decided would be our last meal from there. The food has always been great, but it was the sign on their door that left a bad taste in our mouths.
“Due to the ignorance and stupidity of anti-vaxxers, you have to wear a mask."
This family-owned establishment has chosen an efficient way to announce both their mask policy and their character in one action. This, in a world where they can be anything.
We will continue to support those local businesses who can serve our community – or even just pizza – with kindness.
Beth O'Toole,
Canmore
