Thank you to my OMH Family

It’s practically impossible to feel truly thankful and discontent at the same moment. And by all standards, today’s current environment contributes to discontent and anxiety in so many ways. Hurricane Isaias, Hurricane Laura, California wildfires, and of course, the ever-present concerns about COVID-19 – just to name a few. In addition, each of these elements includes obvious and hidden concerns. Stress, worry, and anxiety rob us of joy as they focus our hearts and minds on what is wrong or missing. Redirect the focus to things you can understand and relate to. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and draw from your shared experiences. And for those experiences that you can’t possibly share, listening with an open heart can help us share empathy and compassion that can lead to a stronger relationships, advocacy, and real change. Let’s start by attempting the impossible and feeling thankful for that which we can. Something powerful occurs when we give thanks, especially when we may not feel grateful. Look to the people around you, your family, your OMH family, your one up, your co-worker and colleagues, and: Give thanks for what has been done; Give thanks for what is being done; Give thanks for what we will do. I will start by being grateful for the many sacrifices you have made over the past few months as we continue to provide quality patient care – even through the most trying times. Thank you. I am grateful for the continued support and adjustments all of you have made as guidance changes daily, and many of you take on new roles that may be outside of your comfort zone to take care of our patients and each other. Thank you. And I am grateful for the choices you will make to keep our patients and colleagues safe to see us through the next year. A heartfelt thank you.