By Dean Whittaker

As I look back at 2018, I am struck by the turbulence. Every day brings new “bumps.” I am reminded of the FUD Factor of Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt – all of which can be dream killers.  Everything starts with a hope, a dream, for ourselves and for those we serve, as well as for the children we raise, and for the future of our planet. Something that brings me hope during these times is the resilience of the human spirit that each of us embodies. I am reminded of the Rudyard Kipling Poem, If.  

In reading the poem, I remember the importance of patience with ourselves and with others, as well as the benefits that simplicity brings. If we can keep a balance, stay steady, listen, the outcome will be better.

If you can dream—and not make dreams your master;
If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster,
And treat those two impostors just the same;

The resilience you display is inspiring. You continue to work to make the communities you serve a better place than when you came. Thank You for the work you do!

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, Kipling reminds us of our ability to forgive ourselves and others when he says:

If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,

May 2019 bring us health, gentleness, and prosperity and the resilience to overcome obstacles and turn them into opportunities.