Whether the trees outside your windows are snow-covered and bare or leafy and green, the new year is an opportunity to look forward with anticipation for all that is in our future.

Photo/Barbara E.R. Lucas

Carl Lefko
USITT President

During this holiday season, I hope that everyone will, as my mother used to say, "Take time to smell the roses."

While it may be cold, windy, and dreary during these short winter days, it is nevertheless the best time to snuggle up to a warm cozy fire with our family and loved ones. It is an opportunity to spend time together, chat, and above all reconnect.

The white blanket of snow (for everyone in the cold country) can be seen as a metaphor for cleansing and new beginning. While new plant growth is stymied waiting for springtime and warmer weather, we must begin planning for those days when the crocuses and daffodils are poking their heads above ground. Enough about springtime, now let’s get back to the cozy fire.

This is the moment to reinforce the New Year and the resolutions that come with great intentions. In this unsettling time, with the seemly ever-present fears of terrorism, unemployment, and the roller coasters of gas prices and stock markets, it is important to take time to reflect on the things we value the most.

I am sure that everyone has much to be thankful for, yet somehow we find ourselves too busy chasing our tails to actually count the blessings we have. It is too easy to get caught up in the things that are not working, or which throw our daily routines into confusion. We must remember to take time to do things that make us laugh.

Stop long enough to reach out to those friends and colleagues that you have developed over the years. At USITT our work together often resembles a closely connected family. The relationships we build over a lifetime of professional activities present an excellent resource for each of us. Picking up the phone and calling a colleague or friend can be the best recipe for discovering a new path to that one illusive answer that has been just out of reach.

As we at USITT look toward our 50th celebration, it is a great time for the Institute to explore a new beginning. While we look to the new year and the next 50 years for USITT, it is my sincere hope that we are successful as we build on our current solid foundation and not only envision, but most importantly create a secure structure for a new generation and our next 50 years.

Together we will reach the dreams that were only a fleeting thought yesterday.

Here is to a successful 2009! Cheers to all!

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