H C B A P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E
C o r y P e r s o n – H i l l W a r d H e n d e r s o n
overcomewithgratitude
“ Asweexpressourgratitude , wemustneverforgetthatthe highestappreciationisnottoutterwords , buttolivebythem .”
— Johnf . kennedy
The holiday season has always been my favorite time of the year . This is not unique — as I suspect that many of you reading this article also consider this “ the most wonderful time of the year .” The gathering of family and friends , the opportunity to give ( and receive ) gifts , the music , the ( ugly ) sweaters , and , of course , the food , are all things that make this time of year so special . But , the holiday season also comes with high expectations — expectations of feeling happy , of being festive — despite whatever challenges or difficulties are happening all around us . Research indicates that for many this time of year is tinged with sadness , anxiety or depression . This may be particularly so given the unique challenges we have all experienced over the past 20 months .
Studies conducted at the University of California , Davis and the University of Miami suggest that one aspect of the holiday season can do more to lift spirits than even … a Burl Ives song — being grateful . Gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia , which means grace , graciousness , or gratefulness , depending on the context . In many ways , gratitude encompasses each of these meanings . Gratitude has been described as a thankful appreciation for what we receive , whether tangible or intangible . It is also an acknowledgement of
the good in our lives , and recognition that the source of that goodness lies , in part , outside of ourselves .
Showing gratitude has consistently been associated with greater happiness . In general , gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions , relish good experiences , improve physical and mental health , and build stronger relationships . So , I ’ d like to share a few things that I am grateful for . I am grateful for our members , so many of whom support our Bar association with their time , energy and resources . I am grateful to our Bar staff , officers and directors , who work so hard to ensure that our Bar is strong , vibrant , relevant , and meeting the needs of our members . I am grate - ful for the wonderful community partners that help sustain our Bar , which enables us to put on so many great programs through out the year ( like our recent awesome Bench Bar Conference )! I am grateful for our military veterans who have given of themselves for the cause of our great country .
This year , if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious , take some time to think about ( and perhaps even write down ) some of the things that you are grateful for . Then , come join us at the HCBA Holiday get together on December 2nd ( where there is a strong chance you hear a Burl Ives tune )! n
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