The Coronavirus\u00a0pandemic is a global phenomenon with incredibly local implications. \u00a0It’s easy to get hyper-focused on the worldwide aspect, the hit on large metropolitan cities, and federal and state government responses. \u00a0Let us not forget the blow it is taking on the small business community; those who work their humps off daily, scraping by to fulfill a dream or a passion or hard-earned trade skill.<\/p>\n
My parents were small business owners. \u00a0Mom owned a flower shop, and prior to that she spent a couple of decades working for a 3 generations of a family with small businesses. \u00a0Dad was a partner in a local pharmacy after having worked tens of years for a proprietor, and he always had small side businesses\u00a0in play, like training hunting dogs, horse trading (literally), selling dog care products, gardening of\u00a0which he gave most away, and who knows what else. \u00a0He was the ORIGINAL “gig economy” guy. \u00a0My daughter and son-in-law are each small business entrepreneurs. \u00a0So, I have a huge soft spot for small business owners.<\/p>\n
While venturing through rural Georgia over the weekend for\u00a0a breath of fresh air, I was reminded of this over and over. \u00a0This little business is a prime example … empty and barren, both the parking lot and the storefront.<\/p>\n
By the way, this joint caught my eye for many reasons: \u00a01) the biblical reference in the name, \u00a02) The play on words between the business name and the petroleum brand (upright sign), \u00a03) the stop sign was\u00a0bonus commentary on the current situation, and \u00a04) the look and feel of the 70’s, back in mom’s and dad’s small business heyday.<\/p>\n
I’m praying this all ends soon for the sake of SMB owners and workers stressing over\u00a0how long they can\u00a0make ends meet!<\/p>\n
Psalm 91:14-16<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0“Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. \u00a0He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.”<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n
![\"3:16](\"http:\/\/marksisco.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/L1004912-C1_2.jpg\")
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