As we return to some normalcy after 15 months of pandemic living, I see some things that I am grateful for.

We grieve for those who have lost loved ones due to this virus. It has been a difficult period with lots of sacrifices made by all of us. I have felt the frustration. I have heard the blaming. We have endured the vulgar bumper stickers that disparage our governor and expose our children to rude language.

Still, for the most part, we can be proud of how we Mainers have weathered the COVID storm. As we compare our statistics with other states, we find we measure up favorably.

Maine is ranked fourth in the country in vaccinations per capita, one of only a handful to have vaccinated over 70% of adults. Maine’s death rate is one of the lowest in the country with 64 deaths per 100,000 citizens. Texas and Florida’s losses are threefold, while other rural states are higher yet (South Dakota, 229).

The pandemic — with its social restrictions, masks, economic setbacks, sickness, and death — has been more than difficult for all of us. However, when we look at the statistics and not the politics, we see the positive results of weathering a mighty storm together.

I want to give a positive shout out to Gov. Mills and to all of our fellow Mainers who have taken this virus seriously and did what needed to be done. Let’s pray the end is in sight, and be grateful.

Rev. Don Mayberry, Norway

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