Happy Holidays to the Austin Lighthouse family
During this time of year, I always spend some time to reflect on what I am, who I am, and where I am. As part of this reflection, my first instinct is to acknowledge how blessed and grateful I am. I have a wonderful wife, seven great children and more than a dozen grandchildren. I have 400+ coworkers that I am eternally thankful for. I have friends and acquaintances who have helped shape me into what I am today, and I feel that my life has purpose.
As you prepare for the holidays, I hope this letter finds you anticipating positive developments and a calmness in your life. Today, there is so much drama in the world and the holiday season can mean different things to different people, as it can represent wonderful and heartening memories, or something less. My heart recognizes and empathizes with those experiencing hardships and mixed emotions this holiday season. Somewhere in the immense range of mixed emotions, I hope you are experiencing gratitude for this past year and are eager for the coming years’ challenges.
It goes without saying that change is inevitable and constant; after all, the world is constantly spinning. The Lighthouse experienced many changes this past year as well. The laundry department move, modifications to a few production lines, construction work at the Lippman building, a new business line, onboarding new team members, new training and development offerings and some very interesting mission delivery programs. All of these were made possible because of your commitment, hard work, and willingness to embrace change.
As I look to the coming year, I am optimistic we will continue to grow and improve in every possible way. My focus for the Lighthouse will be on expanding training opportunities, enhancing efficient operations, be a better place to work and to provide the means to meet future demands.
But for now, I hope you take time to enjoy your family, friends, and neighbors and have time to relax and reflect on your accomplishments this past year. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. As you make plans for 2024, I hope you will commit to investing in your own growth and health. If we all share a mutual goal of fostering self-improvement and a safe workplace, our team will be stronger and productive as a collective community.
So, as we approach the end of the year, I want to wish you all a safe, joyful, and restful holiday season. Take time to enjoy the festivities and know that I am grateful for all that you do for the Austin Lighthouse.
Jim Meehan
President & CEO