Kermit the Frog famously sings that it’s not easy being green and suggests it may be nicer to be red or yellow or gold.

Today we would argue that it’s easier being green than yellow and definitely better than red.

That’s because today, at last, we are green, so far as phases go with the state’s plan for navigating the COVID-19 public health crisis in Pennsylvania.

But don’t rush out and celebrate just yet. Just because Lycoming County has been moved into the green phase does not mean we’ve been given the “all-clear” signal.

Rather, it’s a loosening up of restrictions that have stopped us and our livelihoods in the name of safety.

In the green phase, we still need to follow social distancing and intensive cleaning protocols in our workplaces and businesses. We still need to follow CDC and state Department of Health guidance for as long as the coronavirus threat is with us.

And don’t be mistaken — the threat is still with us.

What we have learned since mid-March when it began in our state is that the measures — considered extreme by some — have lessened the blow. We have been extremely fortunate in our rural region, where the number of cases has been low.

The shutdown order was beneficial as it gave local hospitals the chance to prepare for a surge in patients with the coronavirus.

Now it’s time to get back to business.

Just do it safely.

While masks are not mandated in the green phase, they are recommended by the CDC. Individual businesses will have the right to decline service to those without masks. We believe it is worth the discomfort to wear a mask while out in public, just as we believe it’s been way too long that our business community has suffered the severe restrictions that were put in place.

We will continue our concerns for the small business community that has been hit particularly hard by the restrictions. While those operating at 50-percent capacity may now operate at 75-percent capacity, we worry about the survival of our restaurants and bars, our hair salons and gyms, our entertainment venues and other businesses that have been severely limited and now finally are able to open at 50-percent capacity.

This day will be a good day, though it may not feel much different than yesterday. Caution will continue to be the rule. That’s as it should be.

No, it’s not easy being green, but it is better than being yellow or red.