Pandemic proves hard times bring out the best in Sheffield people

They say hard times bring out the best in people. For many, these past few weeks have been unusual and unsettling, our lives are very disrupted and most of us will know of somebody who has been seriously affected by the Covid-19 crisis.
The Women of Steel statue outside Sheffield City HallThe Women of Steel statue outside Sheffield City Hall
The Women of Steel statue outside Sheffield City Hall

Among this, I see our city rising to the challenge of adversity and growing better as people. I see Sheffield being compassionate, being considerate, being courageous and able to be confident.

We’ve long been a compassionate city. Our civil systems focus upon helping the disadvantaged and we were proudly the nation’s first City of Refuge.

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Compassion is a deeper emotion than sympathy, it stirs us to take action.

The Reverend Nick AllanThe Reverend Nick Allan
The Reverend Nick Allan

The way so many normal Sheffield folk are practically helping those in need is a really heartening sign.

Our city is being considerate. We are trying our best to abide by our government’s rules on social distancing. Living close to our neighbours means choosing to be kind with our noise levels and behaviour, while inside our houses we have to make daily decisions to consider those we share space with.

I see many in our city being courageous. We applaud those who keep serving.

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Yes, the frontline medical staff make the headlines, yet it is those in the service industry jobs who are also being real heroes. Couriers, store assistants, postal staff, cleaners, IT maintenance. Those who keep going for us all, at risk of infection to themselves, without being paid a lot.

Finally, we may be a confident city, because we are a resilient city. We will get through this together.

As a Christian, I encourage you to take confidence and courage from the words of the Bible.

In a time like this, God says to you and me: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

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Let us take the opportunity to walk this testing time with good character; being considerate, compassionate, and at times courageous with ourselves and others.

The Reverend Nick Allan is minister of The Well Church, Ecclesall Road, Sharrow – for daily livestreams visit wellsheffield.com.

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