Utahns Recount Blessings, Express Hopes, Worries During COVID-19 Pandemic

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The disruption from COVID-19 really started in Utah three weeks ago. So, how are you doing? It’s been a challenging time for many, and a devastating time for others.

KSL TV set up a microphone at the Utah State Capitol, kept our distance from everybody and focused on three questions. We asked everybody their greatest concern about the coronavirus, their greatest hope, and their greatest blessings.

“I think we’re doing OK, just doing our best to stay safe, and still get some fresh air every once in a while,” Peter said.

He and his wife, Amber, were enjoying the beauty of the day and the cherry blossoms with their 10-month-old daughter, Flora.

“Just hoping that people are all doing their part to make sure we’re helping it not spread,” Amber said about the virus.

She’s also hoping for a rapid community recovery.

“Economically, mentally, emotionally, physically… everyone can get back to how we were,” she said. Or, at least get back to something more normal.

Many people expressed concerns about the most vulnerable among us.

“I thought about people who don’t have shelter, don’t have food, feel horrible, are dying. So, the suffering of others is my greatest concern,” said Barb, who was walking around the capitol with her husband, Richard. “It’s a big concern for me. I think about it all the time.”

“My wife and I are being extremely careful, and we’re staying home almost all of the time, and we don’t have a lot of contact with others,” said Richard. “We’re not concerned for ourselves as much as we are for family and friends.”

Others worried about Utah’s health care workers and those who have lost their paychecks.

“My biggest concern is with people who are out of work, and the businesses that are shut down,” Carolyn said. “What are these people going to do?”

Jared was staying positive while thinking about the future of his young family.

“We’ve got a 2-month-old baby in the stroller and a 2-year-old at home, and my wife,” he said.

Jared was thankful he is not among our neighbors who have lost work.

“I don’t know what they’re doing right now,” he said. “For me, it’s been a time to walk with my family at Capitol Hill, and that’s not disruptive.”

“I’m really not that worried about the virus itself,” said Carolyn. “But, I’m worried about what’s happening to people’s lives and their livelihood.“

Everyone out walking Tuesday counted their health as a blessing. Barb counted her friend who made her cotton face mask as a blessing, and also, “Good-natured people who have a lot of hope.”