We’re Back
“THIS YEAR has had its losses, ones we would never wish for. But looking back now, I see hope. I see healing. I see heart. The limitations brought about by the pandemic nudged many of us to make changes for the better (some would even argue they were long overdue) in our homes, our businesses, our routines and especially the way we look at the world. Hope: After losing icon Congressman John Lewis, a glimmer of hope showed up in the new Black Lives Matter street mural. We were inspired to ask Black Decatur leaders to share how racial equality has evolved. See their hope on page 6. Healing: The world is looking to our community for answers to the pandemic. Our cover story highlights folks right here who are healthcare heroes on the front lines of fast-tracking vaccine development, creating public health policyand caring for patients (page 18). I’m also deeply inspired by the literary triumph of Natasha Tretheway, who recently published a poignant memoir of her mother, who was murdered by a violent ex-husband on Memorial Drive.The Women’s Resource Center was created as a result of the tragedy. If Tretheway can move forward after her experiences, I know I can too (page 24). Heart: Businesses have responded to the pandemic in spades. They’ve revamped their service with more outdoor space and now products (page 28). They’ve transitioned to helping school children and their families reimagine possibilities (page 34). And our neighbors have shown up with more love and compassion than most of us knew was available, it came in the form of creation – from an Ability Garden (see page 14) to revamped ways of celebrating holidays and life events (page 42). Enjoy and treasure this issue as a year in review of those who found a way forward in the midst of tough times. With all my hope, healing and heart. Natalie Gregory Publisher, Decatur Living
Natalie Gregory
