It is interesting who we value in times of crisis. I am a salesperson. I happen to sell supplies and equipment within the plumbing and heating trade, but I am not “essential”, nor is my job critical to the well-being of others, other than my family. For as long as I can remember, people that work in the trades have been viewed by many as second class citizens because they may not hold a college degree or they were not interested that is considered “prestigious”.
Here we are, in the midst of the largest crisis since World War II. People are working from home, some are not working at all and many that are working are wondering how much longer they can. A group that is not concerned about the status of their work is Plumbers. They are listed as “essential” not once, but twice. Let that sink in. I have nothing but respect for our first responders and medical professionals but without heat, hot and running water, we cannot successfully perform those key jobs to the standard we are used to.