In an effort to show our respect to our hardworking frontliners’ endless shifts, some people and establishments have suggested to let them go first when queuing at public places amid COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite deserving it, Dr. Arnel still can’t help but be emotional when, while in line for a last-minute errand, the store’s manager came up to him and insisted that he go first.
“Naku po ma’am, hindi na po. Malapit na din naman ako sa counter,” the doctor said, but the manager didn’t listen as she helped him move his items to the nearest cashier lane.
Dr. Arnel admitted that he initially refused because he didn’t want to cause a scene. After all, his fellow customers were waiting patiently for their turns. However, their friendly smiles and “go-signal” looks were enough signs.
The lady next to him as well as aforementioned manager also thanked him for the sacrifices the health workers have been exerting amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “Sige na, Doc. Mauna na po kayo maraming salamat po sa ginagawa ninyo,” the former said.
Dr. Arnel shared that he walked out the grocery store smiling while on the verge of tears. “. I walked out the supermarket smiling but holding my tears (Promise naiyak ako) ?. Hindi ko po inakala ganito pala kagaan sa loob pag sa harap mo mismo naramdaman na inaapreciate ka,” he admitted.
He continued, “Hanep! Sarap ng feeling makarinig ng ganyan lalo na pag pagod ka. ? Yung pasasalamat ninyo ay bukod tanging nagpapatibay sa amin.”
“Lalo pa namin galingan at paghuhusayan yung ginagawa namin. Lalo namin gagampanan ang sinumpaan namin bilang isang manggagamot at lalo namin titibayan ang loob namin para sa inyo. ❤️,” he ended.
Frontliners like Dr. Arnel have done more done enough in containing the deadly pandemic. Prioritizing them at establishments like grocery stores is just a mere show of appreciation for saving the country. In addition to that, next time you see one, a simple “Thank you” might just make their day.