Words of Encouragement

What a thing to say “I was alive during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic!” 

On reflection I can say, this is the year I grasped the gift of family, being kind to myself, making room in my life for others both new and different, believing in the hope that we can all change to become better persons capable of showing empathy and taking actions to make life better for those less privileged. 

I join with you, as we all agree, to own all our experiences of this very unconventional year close: unexpected losses, postponed celebrations, close quarters, working from home, home schooling, zooming all day on calls, attending all kinds of virtual events, finding new ways to stay healthy and choosing to be optimistic about a future we anticipate will likely be so different from the past. 

How do we make sure that the lessons learnt and successes achieved position us well for 2021? 

We take note of those things that bring us true joy; we move courageously towards making bold steps to make our lives and those of our loved ones better; we love more intentionally; we practice good self-care and we laugh more! 

If anything,  the losses over the last year has affirmed the importance of staying present, staying steadfast and allowing our faith to guide our steps. 

For all these reasons, keeping joy close to home is probably how we will be spending the holidays this year.  Holding each other in our ‘bubble’ closer with hearts renewed with hope for the New Year ahead. 

I wish you boundless joy for your dreams and new beginnings of better times ahead. As I have said throughout this year, please be well and stay safe. Our best days are ahead.

Warmest of wishes,

Lorene Phillips