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To the editor:

In a time where so many things feel out of our control with this pandemic and in our world, we all find ourselves grappling for what we can control. It’s human nature. We are so fortunate to live in a democracy where our voices can be heard, and they matter. It is also important to remember that a successful democracy involves working together through appropriate channels, and respecting others’ voices and the resulting decisions that are made.

I feel that Davie County Schools have consistently listened to and factored in voices from our community, students, health experts, neighboring districts, teachers and more with each decision they have had to make. It is their job to provide an environment in which our children are educated and safe, and unfortunately for them, there is no one answer that will ever appease all. I am thankful for what we have in common as we all share goals of maximizing in-person instruction, keeping sports open, and having social interaction for our children. How these goals transpire is a fluid situation with this pandemic that takes surveillance and analysis our school system is constantly working within.

My friends and neighbors, some things are hard. Losing a loved one is hard. Giving birth is hard. War is hard. Fighting cancer is hard. Wearing a mask is not hard.

So, back to what can we control. Actually, lots of things. We can control our words, our attitudes, our behavior, our compassion, our gratitude, our actions. What would it look like if each of us put our energy into action that positively impacts our neighbors and community? What if we picked up a few extra school supplies for potential at-risk children in the classroom? What if we checked with teachers or schools to see if there are other resources they need that we may be able to uniquely provide? What if we contacted local entities like Family Promise or Just Hope to see what ways we can support them as they do incredible work right here in Davie County?

Let’s be a part of something building our community up, helping our neighbors, and producing unity, while knowingly being in a time that feels out of control.

Meredith Wagstaff

Mocksville