The Wall Street Journal’s Peggy Noonan offered an important thought in a column last week. She wrote about some research finding “unexpected gifts of the pandemic..."

Most of all and strikingly the results showed deep gratitude for the people who work on the ground in America, who kept the country functioning. Almost everyone mentioned personal thanks for grocery-store workers and truckers. For eight months we’ve read and heard stories of self-sacrifice and dedication. They have sunk in. I believe the pandemic inched forward a certain cultural shift, a broadened sense of who deserves honor.”

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, found himself awed this year by “the resilience of the human spirit”—medical professionals “risking their lives to save others, researchers racing against time for a vaccine, and countless everyday heroes delivering packages, stocking shelves.” Technology helped save the day: “When it was crucial to remain apart, technology brought us closer together in ways unimaginable just a few years ago—helping families stay connected . . . helping us all stay productive, entertained, and healthy.”

Living back up on Kirby Mountain, I have long been deeply aware of the guys who keep our household running. There’s John the plow truck driver, Jeff the driveway sander, Tom and his logging skills, Gerard and his ten wheeler of gravel, Josh the excavator, Bob our car and truck mechanic, Matt the plumber, Duane the electrician, and Ken the oil truck driver. Plus, I should add, Penny who delivers our mail.

My wife and I have long been deeply grateful for these guys, who have kept us running over many years.

John McClaughry is vice president of the Ethan Allen Institute.