These past several months have affected the lives of you—the clients of Syverson Strege—and our team of employees. We were forced to modify our habits and discover a new norm for work, school, and living. We know how extraordinary these times are for you and your families, and we are committed to getting through this together.
I speak for all of us at Syverson Strege to say thank you for being a part of our family. We appreciate the continued support of clients like you during these times of uncertainty for all. Thank you for trusting us, for showing faith in us, and for your willingness to adapt to new ways of doing business. Some of you even referred new clients to us during this difficult time, which helps our business grow. Truly, it is our pleasure to serve all of you.
Many things have changed. What hasn’t changed is that the people we can count on are still here, working to keep us safe and in good health. Essential workers are making sure children continue to learn, ensuring public safety and infrastructure continue, providing food for our tables, and keeping us healthy. Many of our clients are essential workers, and all of us at Syverson Strege thank you. Please join us in thanking not only the essential workers, but all people who have come together to help others in need.
Through this pandemic experience, Syverson Strege has sought to remain strong. Each member of our team works tirelessly, harnessing our energy and skills to meet your needs. We have adjusted our way of working to continue supporting you—our valued clients and your families—through training, collaboration, and with new tools to tailor processes to fit new standards. I am proud of the work values, spirit, and unity I have observed in our team, as we adapt to a new reality. Our leadership team prepared for this moment, and implemented the necessary changes without a hitch.
When I began my career at Syverson Strege 18 years ago, I often asked myself, “What do I have to offer the clients of Syverson Strege?” The majority of my career had been in public service and service-related roles. Generally, Syverson Strege’s clients seemed to have it all—wealth, successful professional careers and businesses, and beautiful families. I would ask, “What do I have to offer them that will make a difference in their lives?”
Over the years, and this year in particular, it became clear: I can offer kindness and compassion. As I go through my day, I look for the opportunities to speak, think, and give kindness. As I do this, I see the world change around me. I realize how important it is to express warmth and affection through my words and actions to give hope. People will always remember how you make them feel, and giving hope in times of crisis is a way to create positive energy. Reaching out to others without expecting something in return feels good. I still receive more than I give, however, but I am not helpless.
With all that has happened recently, it is tempting to dwell on everything that went wrong, lest we forget: COVID-19, race concerns across our country, protests in hundreds of cities that sometimes turned violent, a global recession triggered by lockdowns, the Iowa derecho, and numerous other catastrophic weather-related events. Also, the loss of livelihoods, food insecurity, school closures, your inability to spend time with family and friends, widespread suffering, the deaths of clients and loved ones, and dramatic shifts in your daily life. Can the nation’s political system survive these stresses? The hopes you originally had for 2020 might have dwindled as each day passed.
But, I want to remind you that there is still so much good in your life. Even during this global pandemic, you still have people close to you who are in good health. You still have a roof over your head and food in your belly. And that’s worth celebrating. If you’re feeling fear and uncertainty about the future, just remember that each step forward is an act of gratitude and optimism. You haven’t given up, and neither have we.
2020 has given us a true reality check, so where do we go from here? Focus on the future; prioritize your mental health; be flexible, optimistic, and resilient. Following a routine of self-care and personal growth can help you feel empowered and grounded again. The outside world will always be there. So, take time now to cultivate daily habits that empower you. And you can continue putting one foot in front of the other each and every day.
Let’s focus on a future that is filled with hope. Let’s start filling our world with music and songs of hope in preparation for the great celebration that awaits us. We will meet again in person. We will celebrate together again. Syverson Strege will strive to provide you the utmost support and services.
In these moments of uncertainty, there is one thing you can always count on—our commitment to you and your success. We are honored to serve you. Thank you for being a part of our Syverson Strege family and for believing in us all through the years. Together we are stronger!