Last Friday, I went to my favorite Chinese restaurant (Sesame Chinese) for lunch and was surprised to find the place empty when it’s usually busy (especially on Fridays).  A few more people did eventually show up, but it hit me that this was just another example of the tough economic times we live in.  This thought lead to another realization:  there has never been a more important time than now to support local businesses.

We’ve seen so many big companies announce massive layoffs lately that it won’t be long before that pain trickles down to small businesses (I’m sure it already has).  Of course, most of these big companies will survive this economic crisis but there is a good chance that many of these small businesses won’t, which is why they need our support now more than ever.

Next time you plan to go out to eat or do some shopping, try to remember to support your local businesses first.  Instead of eating at a chain restaurant, eat at your favorite local restaurant, even if it means having to go a little bit out of your way.  Otherwise, that local business may not be here after this crisis has subsided.

If we don’t support our local businesses today, they may not be here tomorrow.  Let’s start today!