This is such an exciting time of year;
it is almost magical in many ways.
We seem to give ourselves permission to pause in our busy lives. It is a time, globally, for gathering families and celebrating our many cultural traditions. In the Meiers’ family, we bake favorite treats, share holiday meals, watch favorite holiday movies, and spend some needed family time together getting to know each other again. Of course, because we live in Minnesota in the Midwest of the United States, there is always snow to challenge us and to enhance our outdoor adventures. I look forward to snowshoeing and sledding with our grandchildren.

At this time of year, I am thinking of all of you and your families across the globe, as well. You are all doing such amazing work on behalf of the families you care for and care about through your practice and research. You are elevating the teaching of family nursing practice and you are advocating for innovative policies and solutions. I wish you all the gift of time so that you may pause and reward yourselves by celebrating with those you love and those who love you.

I also believe we are all called to remember those families among us who are struggling this time of year. I encourage you to find altruistic ways, large and small, to support the most vulnerable families throughout the Holiday Season. Each country has its own charitable traditions and you all know the best approach to which you and your family can commit.

Thank you for your contributions to family health, well-being and care the world over.

Warm regards,

Sonja J. Meiers, PhD, RN, PHN
President
International Family Nursing Association
International Family Nursing Association
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