As this year draws to a close and we prepare to leave for winter break, we have much to celebrate and be thankful for at USF Health.
And yet.
We also need to recognize that by any measure, it is a difficult time in the world. We are witnessing rising political intolerance and authoritarian regimes reminiscent of the 1930s, as well as horrific acts of terror, brutal wars, and humanitarian crises across the globe. Closer to home, we face ongoing economic uncertainties and cultural and political discord. In health care, many providers are stressed and coping with unprecedented levels of burnout, not to mention rising costs and falling revenues.
It is understandable if these things make it harder for us to feel joyful. But we also should recognize that doing so – coming together with loved ones to express our gratitude for the blessings that sustain us and defiantly celebrating the power of good --- is even more important in times of trial.
On December 24, 1941, Americans were still in shock, reeling from the tragic loss of life at Pearl Harbor and the reality that their world had profoundly shifted for the worse. In that dark time, President Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill joined forces to deliver a Christmas Eve message. The moment was captured by Churchill, who said, “Here, in the midst of war, raging and roaring over all the lands and seas, creeping nearer to our hearts and homes, here, amid all the tumult, we have tonight the peace of the spirit in each cottage home and in every generous heart.”
In that spirit, I hope that this year’s holiday season brings to us all a renewal of spirit and a gathering of our collective wills to sustain our commitment to seek excellence in all we do, to be relentlessly kind and to spread a pandemic of joy.
As we pause for this joyful reflection, I hope you will each take a few minutes to enjoy our USF Health holiday video – a celebration of the many good things you have achieved over the past year. I am deeply grateful for each of your contributions.
Wishing you all the best over winter break. Here’s to an exciting New Year of Making Life Better in 2024.