Find Your Branch

We Always Will Be Family

We Always Will Be Family
By Reginald Gramblin
Executive Vice President of Maryland/District of Columbia State Branch 923 and Southern Maryland Branch 531

The Postal Service has undergone a tremendous transformation due to the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. The day-to-day lives of our existence are truly being tested by unknown factors that have significantly changed the way we perceive our jobs. Through the years, the Postal Service has maintained consistency in providing a service that lives up to the slogan that we deliver through rain, sleet, snow, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc.

This virus, however, poses a different kind of threat. The rules for engagement in combating this phenomenon change on a daily basis, sometimes hourly, as our medical experts evaluate test results. The prognosis for a vaccine still is up in the air, with no timeline for completion on the horizon. This leads us to prepare for the immediate future more quickly than some of us planned. So, as NAPS members, what can we do?

NAPS traditionally has been considered a family of dedicated members who, like most families, fuss, cuss, argue and, in some cases, agree to disagree on various issues. I find that, in most cases, this occurs because of our love, passion—or maybe dislike—for each other at times.

Regardless of how we view one another, one thing always remains crystal clear: We always will be family. The important lessons we learn from these experiences is the essence of our survival in times such as these. The key to a successful family is to face adversity with faith so we can overcome tragedies in our midst.

I strongly encourage all of you to embrace your family with the sincerity of togetherness. Many of our members are enduring hardships in these challenging times. We need to elevate our emotional intelligence to ensure our family is educated and well-advised on proper procedures. We need to let everyone know we are in this together.

Follow all protocols issued by the CDC. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and get the right answers. Each member of the family plays an important role in maintaining the application of these guidelines. This is essential in providing family stability and strength to battle this pandemic.

As we continue social distancing, washing hands, wearing protective masks and quarantining when necessary, I have no doubt our NAPS family will stand strong and united and continue to excel. Remember, the family is counting on every one of you to share some love. (Please, no hugs).

May you all be blessed and stay safe.