By Dean Whittaker

As the drama of 2016 draws to a close and the hope of 2017 springs forward, I am amazed by life’s journey. We’ve all experienced joys and sorrows in the year that is passing. Joy found in the new friends/clients, the deepening relationship with colleagues, and the new discoveries made as how to better serve others.

Sorrows for me came in the form of the passing of close friends and their struggle with their illnesses as well as in feeling the heart-breaking grief of witnessing a 93 year-old father saying good-bye to his terminally ill daughter.

My team and I end each of our weekly meetings with each of us sharing three gratitudes. Almost always, “having enjoyable work to do” is on each person’s list. So, to our clients/friends, thank you. We appreciate the opportunities that you have given us.

Looking ahead we see the hope and promise that 2017 holds. We are all on a continuum between certainty and uncertainty. 2017 looks to be more on the uncertainty side than usual. However, my confidence is in the resilience of people and the hope and faith in the future that we all bring. As Forrest Gump said, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to get.” My belief is that, together, we will figure it out.

Here’s to a bright and promising 2017. Happy New Year!

Book Recommendations:

Being Mortal
When Breath Becomes Air
Grit

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Want to know how our economy works? Here’s one of the best explanations I’ve heard: How The Economic Machine Works by Ray Dalio