Hope for 2021
Year End Message from Connie
Will things ever go back to normal?
The short answer? No. Our lives will probably never return to what was before the biggest public health crisis of our lives. Change is the only constant, and our lives will never be the same. So, if it is not an option to return to what was, where do we find hope?
If you are a dreamer like me, you may be struggling to find hope in the overall picture. Hope is lost by hanging onto unrealistic expectations. When I am overwhelmed and falling into pessimism, I bring my thoughts closer to home. As I walk around my community, I extend lovingkindness to my fellow residents with a smile and greeting. I recognize my own fears and uncertainties in their eyes. I remind myself all those I meet are struggling currently and that it is our job – our duty – to extend them kindness.
When you have lost hope and do not know where to find it, you may have an inspiration to create it for others. Hope is sometimes as simple as being present for others. For me, there is no higher calling than to see others – really see them – and recognize their pain without trying to fix it or diminish it.
Hope is making someone else feel less alone in this world.
Alternatively, hope is a sign of resiliency. It can be found in the belief that we can build something new, something better, and come out of this with more empathy for our neighbors and loved ones. Perhaps we should not hang our hope on a specific event or outcome in the future. Our hope must come from a deeper place.
We have many more projects lined up next year and I am sure with your dedication and determination we will be able to complete those with conviction and a happy heart. I thank you ALL for your support and hope this relationship continues as we achieve success together. My best wishes to you and your families for a safe, Happy Holiday Season and prosperous New Year.
Connie Whitlock
WHAM Executive Director
End of Year Message 2020
Will things ever go back to normal?
The short answer? No. Our lives will probably never return to what was before the biggest public health crisis of our lives. Change is the only constant, and our lives will never be the same. So, if it is not an option to return to what was, where do we find hope?
If you are a dreamer like me, you may be struggling to find hope in the overall picture. Hope is lost by hanging onto unrealistic expectations. When I am overwhelmed and falling into pessimism, I bring my thoughts closer to home. As I walk around my community, I extend lovingkindness to my fellow residents with a smile and greeting. I recognize my own fears and uncertainties in their eyes. I remind myself all those I meet are struggling currently and that it is our job – our duty – to extend them kindness.
When you have lost hope and do not know where to find it, you may have an inspiration to create it for others. Hope is sometimes as simple as being present for others. For me, there is no higher calling than to see others – really see them – and recognize their pain without trying to fix it or diminish it.
Hope is making someone else feel less alone in this world.
Alternatively, hope is a sign of resiliency. It can be found in the belief that we can build something new, something better, and come out of this with more empathy for our neighbors and loved ones. Perhaps we should not hang our hope on a specific event or outcome in the future. Our hope must come from a deeper place.
We have many more projects lined up next year and I am sure with your dedication and determination we will be able to complete those with conviction and a happy heart. I thank you ALL for your support and hope this relationship continues as we achieve success together. My best wishes to you and your families for a safe, Happy Holiday Season and prosperous New Year.
Connie Whitlock
WHAM Executive Director
End of Year Message 2020