The Cookie Jar Cafe in a pastoral setting outside of Dunlap has had to lay off most of its staff, but is trying to keep going with take-out orders.
Owner Sue Ann Lockhart on Wednesday wrote, "I sit here, taking in my new reality.
"I have had to do one of the hardest things in my life these past two days, lay off my entire staff, minus a few. My heart hurts for them. Not knowing our future hurts for us. But let me tell you something, my God is bigger than all of this.
"Yesterday we had to sit and come up with a number. A number that will allow me to keep my doors open with my skeleton staff. Some are just working for tips, not even hourly wages. I prayed over that number this morning.
"My God sent that number to me and then some. So many friendly faces today. So many words of encouragement. Tears are rolling down my face as I close out this day. I am humbled. I am beyond thankful. And most of all, I am blessed.
"My entire adult life is in this building. So are the lives of my 35 employees. I pray that you continue to bless us with your business, so I can bring more back to work with us sooner than later.
"Our lives will never be the same, and after today, I’m not sure that’s a bad thing. My God has a plan, He will bring us out on the other side more blessed than before."