Hi, my name is Gaby and I, like several other teenagers, work at a fast-food restaurant here in Columbus Nebraska.

When the pandemic hit our small town and schools were closed, I was told I was an essential worker. Now, what exactly does that mean? Fox News describes essential workers as workers who conduct COVID-19 research and testing, pharmacy employees who are necessary for refilling medical prescriptions, and finally food and agricultural workers such as those who work in grocery stores or restaurants. Obviously there are many more occupations on the list on foxnews.com, but basically, if you are still working while your city or town has shut down schools, you are considered an essential worker.

Now, I am currently being paid a little less than minimum wage but that does not including the tips I make. Unfortunately, I am the only one in my five-person household that is still working. While that itself is less than convenient, there are families who can’t even go to work, meaning no one in their household is making money.

To the teenagers out there who are considered essential workers, I applaud you. You go to work, probably more than you ever had to, come home and have to do online schooling, and on top of it all, you try to be a normal teenager. Things were never like this but the teenagers who try to adjust and don’t even complain are amazing. Your hard work does not go unnoticed.

A little kindness always goes a long way. A gratuity tip of any amount is really appreciated. Maybe a simple 'thank you' to an employee of your favorite restaurant may be just the thing they needed. Stay safe at work and please, only go out for essential purposes.