By Debby McKinney
Self-isolation guidelines have been in place since mid-March. At the time of this writing, we don’t know if they will be extended and if so, for how long? Then what?
Who would have thought we would celebrate Easter virtually from our homes? The churches were empty, but so was the tomb. Jesus is the victor over death and over doom and gloom. May the world see hope when they look at God’s people.
This is a new world we’ve all been thrown into and all the parts won’t go back in their “places” when things get back to “normal.” This applies to all aspects of our life and business.
We have a chance to reinvent and renew ourselves, our families, our careers, business and our faith. Through all of this, people need leaders. BE a leader.
Some businesses will do well in this climate; others will not. It’s time for an honest assessment of where you are and your business. Be proactive and get really creative as new opportunities will surface.
Right now, we rely heavily on social media and other digital platforms and TV to get information on just about everything in our lives, including local business. It’s how we find out if a business is open, what they are doing, either live or digitally, or if local restaurants are providing curbside or delivery services.
Below are local business examples of innovation and of kindness.
We’ve all seen the heart warming pictures and videos of family members standing outside of assisted living type facilities with signs for their loved ones. Locally owned The Manor at Bluewater Bay took a different approach by having their residents hold up signs telling their loved ones they were o.k. and doing well, then posting on Facebook.
The Deer Moss neighborhood in Niceville found a way to support local business One 20 Modern Bistro, bringing Friday night dinner in their food truck Spork. Neighbors ate on their porch or front yard. For information on other neighborhoods that have picked up on this, go to facebook.com/one20amodernbistro/
Share Norville, owner of Artful Things Niceville, offers SAVE A SMALL BUSINESS GIFT CARDS for $25 or more good through April 21, 2021. See the daily posts showcasing local artists’ work showcased facebook.com/Artfulthingsniceville/
Café Rico Food Truck can be found at various locations in the area from the Niceville Senior Center to 3rd Planet Brewery and more. For information on locations check out: facebook.com/CafeRicoBWB
The Farmers Markets play a vital role as a liaison between farms, ranches, fish and seafood and consumers. The Niceville Community Farmers Market has been expanded from one day a week to three days (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) a week. The 331 Farmers Market in Freeport is open seven days a week.
My hope is that all of us are inspired to be of service in new ways according to His purpose.
This reminds me of a verse my Dad wrote in my Bible long ago: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” —Romans 8:28 We are victorious in Him!
Debby McKinney is mom to three grown kids, two grandchildren and a chocolate Lab.
She is founder of Optimum Health Partners (www.OptimumHealthPartners.com-Website not live yet, but will be soon), and co-founder of Emerald Coast Women in Business, a place for women to connect. Visit www.EmeraldCoastWomen.com.
