There is Much to be Grateful for This Year

By Theresa Leatherbury, Rachuba President and CEO

I admit, I didn’t buy into the panic over the COVID-19 pandemic at first. When shutdowns first took effect in March, I had two thoughts: 1) this would all be over in two to four weeks, and 2) As a country, we were over-reacting. I don’t have to tell you that I was wrong on both counts.

It took me a while, but I finally accepted that we were all going to be in this for a long time and that there were many others whose perspectives differed from mine. As I reflect on 2020 and look forward to the holiday season, I am reminded of what is truly important in our lives. I realized that we can’t seek happiness from external sources – other people, going to events, acquiring material things. True happiness comes from within and starts with gratitude.

Although 2020 has been the craziest year in my lifetime, there are plenty of things for which I am grateful:

• I am grateful to the whole Rachuba team. As property and construction managers, our business is considered essential. While we were fortunate to be able to stay open, we were challenged to figure out how to keep working in a way that kept our employees, residents, and clients safe. The Rachuba team quickly put protocols in place to accommodate everyone’s safety and then did what they do best – serve our customers. I consider our team among the many everyday heroes who have continued to do everything necessary to serve others throughout this pandemic.
• I am grateful for our residents and our clients, who were so understanding and graciously worked with us as we altered our business processes to accommodate the health and safety of everyone.
• I am grateful for my network of business associates, clients, and friends for their guidance and support. Even though we couldn’t get together in person, there were so many opportunities to stay connected virtually. Specifically, keeping in touch with my sisters in the Women President’s Organization, my friends in the Institute of Real Estate Management, and all the wonderful colleagues I’ve met through InSight ConneX over the years helped keep business moving forward and provided much-needed connection in these stressful times.
• On a personal note, some positive things did come out of this pandemic. Both of my kids came home from college early, and I was blessed to have more time with them. It also forced me to slow down. Since I had to be home, I was able to give myself the gift of time and relaxation. I also had more time to participate in things we often neglect when we’re too busy – more time to work out; more time to walk the neighborhood; more time to spend with family and even some friends (socially-distanced, of course); more time to reflect on the many blessings I have.

This Thanksgiving season, I hope we can all pause and express gratitude for our personal and professional triumphs – no matter how small or large – achieved in the face of so many challenges. Wishing you and yours a safe and meaningful holiday season.

-Theresa

“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude. “

Brené Brown