We have understood, from the beginning of the Pandemic that turned everyone's world upside down, that we were entering a marathon, not a race. We know what our ultimate destination is - to see Circle Center full and flourishing again - yet we know that the road to get there is a long and winding one, full of unforeseen twists and turns. Luckily, our team has adapted at each turn, and we have kept our focus on our final destination, while allowing for time, and an opportunity to learn at each pit stop along the way.
While it is human nature to want immediate gratification, we have been forced to slow down and make adaptions and changes slowly. This slow pace can be frustrating, both to those on the outside and on the inside. Yet, we have taken this time to implement strategies that will ultimately help us reach our goal. Each new health and safety protocol, though they may feel time consuming or cumbersome, is a vital part of that plan.
We have also taken this time to look, listen, and learn. To focus on what makes Circle Center unique and what we can do to ensure a long future of serving our community. Our caregiver survey has been one important element of this conversation. We have heard that caregiver stress has increased, a fact felt by nearly everyone, even on staff, who are balancing their own various caregiver struggles - so this is one we understand personally and professionally. We have heard the concerns about the decline of both physical and emotional health and well-being, and how social isolation is largely to blame for those outcomes.
We have watched as the slow and planned return of participants has given us a sense of return to "normal," reigniting friendships and a feeling of community that make such a huge difference to our collective mental and physical health. And we continue to look forward, and with your support, we know we will cross the finish line together. Like all marathon runners know, finishing a marathon is more than just an athletic achievement. It is a state of mind that says
anything is possible
. Thanks for cheering us on!