Signs of the Times
Deborah Sarbin
Perhaps because I’m a walker, I notice signage. After all, it’s easy to stop when any sign catches my attention and pause to read. Today I tuned in to signs in businesses on Clarion’s Main Street. Each has one: some official looking print-outs from a Word template, some hand-lettered in marker. Closed, they each say, of course. Closed to help hold back a pandemic. But it’s all about the way they word it. Temporarily closed; closed until further notice; closed until we’re allowed.
Church signs quote scripture or announce virtual services, a radio broadcast of Mass, already well-established. Days ago, for the first time, my parish sign was blank. I thought, the lack of a message is the message; in a time before public Masses were canceled, but when official restrictions ratcheted up every 24 hours, who knew what to post?
Some storefronts offer folksy commentary, aligned with their community spirit: God bless and take care exclaims County Seat Restaurant, the sign framed in the window by their wooden chicken collection. Thanks for you support! Michelle’s Café exudes in bold marker. I smiled at several injunctions to Stay Strong Clarion! But that other great source of wise words and inspiration, the marquee of Downtown Car Wash, says it best: This, too, shall pass.