Dear Editor,

One of the struggles of self-isolation is how hard it is to say thanks. Many of us have seen reports of communities in different locations that are picking a common time to go outside and make some noise in support of our brave brothers and sisters on the front lines of this terrible COVID-19. This is both a great way to say thanks, and if most of us participate, a daily check-in with your neighbors as well. We’ve started going outside and making noise at 6 p.m., and ask all to join us.

We are thanking medical personnel, first responders, firefighters, police, cashiers, self-stockers, postal workers, delivery folks of all types — newspaper, Amazon, take-out food, those preparing and delivering school lunches and education kits, soup kitchen and food pantry workers, and everyone else you can think of who is taking a chance to help us all through this hard time.

How can you participate? At 6 p.m. each evening, step onto your lawn, porch, front steps, wherever. Clap, bang pots and pans, play music, sing. Look around and see if your neighbors are participating and shout and ask them how they’re doing. If you’re a front-liner yourself, know that we are all thanking you.

Join us! Let us know that you’re OK, and that you’re grateful for those on the front lines.

Susan Stout,

Warren