Our world is transforming around us at an unprecedented pace. The “New Normal” is not a fad to be mocked, shunned or ignored. The media bellows fear and anxiety and pleads its viewers to release their fortitude of freedom in exchange for a slice of government-sanctioned safety. Life, as we knew it, will not re-emerge if the citizens of this great country lie in despair and solitude. Many businesses have already succumbed to unconstitutional mandates and many more will follow if our community refuses to unite under a single cause.

For those who are waiting with bated breath for a vaccine to triumphantly return us to the ways of the past, you will be sorely disappointed. Our window is short and the time to stand is now while we have at least some leverage to salvage. The sacrifice and gamble necessary to win is heavy, but what does the future hold if we stay subservient to the ever changing demands of reckless authority? Weathering this storm is a short-term dream that merely brings temporary solace and endless complicity to those who fear the repercussions. Enumclaw is a special and unique town full of strength, character and community and we have what it takes to stand up for our God-given inalienable rights. There are those who write about history and there are many who read it, but there are only a few who make it.

If we choose to do nothing, the “Old Normal” will soon transform into a new rendition of Rockwell-esque paintings of public gatherings, theater screenings, physical embrace of loved ones, overflowing restaurants, kids splashing in water parks, and the occasional drink with a stranger on a plane. Those who age with the “New Normal” will reminisce, with hesitant nostalgia, of an odd time of indifference and jeopardy. The so-called careless ways of past generations will haunt this cowering populous, mindlessly directing the soulless fools toward a meticulously created path of unified serfdom.

In light of our current situation I choose to stand and one day I will be blessed with the opportunity to share with my grandkids how I did so and who stood with me. It is far past time for our city to return to business as usual.

Nick Cochran

Enumclaw