Message from the President
Dear Friends,
I know it's a bit cliché, but it really is impossible to believe that another year is about to come to a close. Our office is abuzz with the effort of wrapping up 2006 projects and laying the foundation for what's to come in 2007 – not to mention the anticipation of the holidays!
Life gets so crazy sometimes, as we deal with the ongoing details of our work: processing paperwork, managing our budgets, addressing client and staff needs, going to what seems like an endless string of meetings and events.
Whether you work in the for-profit or not-for-profit world, most of us are – in our own unique ways – ultimately trying to improve people's lives. As we whiz around attempting to stay on top of all the details necessary to operate our businesses it's easy to lose sight of the true purpose behind this flurry of activity.
The same can be said of the holidays; while we're caught up in the hustle and bustle of cookie baking, gift wrapping and the last minute visits to the overcrowded mall, the stresses of the holidays can quickly overshadow the spirit of goodwill we keep hearing about in the songs playing on nearly every radio station this time of year.
One of my staff members recently shared with me the story of the "White Envelope" which was originally published in the December 14, 1982, issue of Woman's Day magazine. It was the first place winner in the magazine's "My Most Moving Holiday Tradition" contest.
The story, originally titled "For the Man Who Hated Christmas", describes how one man's dislike of the commercialism, overspending and frantic running around associated with Christmas resulted in a beloved family tradition exemplifying the true spirit of the holidays.
Please take a moment out of your undoubtedly busy schedule to read this wonderful story. I hope it touches you as it did me, and makes you stop to reflect – today and throughout the coming year – about what's really important. May the spirit of the White Envelope inspire a joyous holiday and a wonderful year in 2007 for you and your family.
Best Regards,
Carol Gore