THESE are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.
- Thomas Paine, The American Crisis
Wuhan Virus. COVID-19. Coronavirus. While the name of the threat facing our world may be up for debate, there's one thing we can all agree on: the virus is very real, and its impact is being felt in every community across America.
However, in trying times such as these, we must come together as Americans to support one another, and, when necessary, provide a helping hand to those in need. That is exactly the stand that Convention of States Illinois State Director Jerry Baggot is taking.
Jerry contacted the office of Representative Sonya Harper of Illinois Legislative District 6, offering to serve his community and help her office in any way that he could. Thankful for his offer, Rep. Harper's office provided Jerry with a list of senior citizens in the district to call for a wellness check, and to see if they need any resources.
"I've been able to reach 3-4% of the people on the list," reported Jerry. "So far, during this Coronavirus pandemic, everyone in District 6 appears to be okay." Jerry will continue contacting seniors on the list throughout the week.
This type of service to our community is part of a new initiative called COS Serves, and it personifies the Convention of States mission. Our goal may be to call an Article V convention, but our mission is to unite our communities by developing relationships with our neighbors, and fostering a culture of self-governance.
No relationship can be complete without the type of love displayed in actions such as Jerry's. In a time of crisis, Jerry stood tall, and sought ways to help his neighbors. His selfless commitment to his fellow countrymen should serve as an inspiration to us all, and "deserves love and thanks of man and woman," especially from his Convention of States family.
