Be the Glimpse- A Holiday Message to end the year

The holidays are an odd dichotomy for me—and for many of those I talk to in this community. While this season is meant to represent renewal, rebirth, cheer, lights, festivities, and family, for many of us there is a missing person or a tradition that simply isn’t the same. Sometimes it’s a harder season than normal for reasons we can’t always name, but it makes this time of year feel different.

I encourage you to look for the glimpses. Maybe it’s the image of your loved one in another person. Maybe it’s an act of service you can do for someone else. Look for the glimpses of good that are still out there—things bigger than you, no matter how big or small.

I heard a story this weekend about how a daughter of a deceased Veteran found Ohio Western Reserve Ladies through one of our members. I had no idea those connections existed yet or how far our reach had gone in these quiet moments. It was a glimpse of how our community is helping others—often without us ever realizing it. A note you receive, someone saying hello, a smile from a passerby… more glimpses that you can choose as your reason for the season.

Be the glimpse. Be a part of something bigger than yourself. Tell someone good morning. Reach out to the person who just popped into your mind and let them know you were thinking of them before the moment passes you by. Join a community that can support you when you need it.

Ohio Western Reserve Ladies will celebrate four years this January. I’ve said repeatedly that while other organizations are often in awe of how quickly we deliver resources and connections to those who need them, we are equally in awe of our members. Their ability to come together around a common mission and deliver for our community is something special. We are proof that when you believe in your partners and in the mission, great things can happen. We are leading the charge, and we welcome those who want to be part of it. Humbled isn’t a complete enough word when I watch what this group does.

Within the last few months, I was fortunate enough to talk with a retired Submariner about the inherent contradiction of submarines. (For those of you who don’t remember, my Dad was a submariner.) A submarine is a naval vessel referred to as a “boat” that goes sub-marine level. We take a floating vessel—an enormous city—and force it deep under the water to run undetectable, part of the "Silent Service", while carrying immense power. It is a paradox.

So when you feel like a season isn’t possible—like it’s an absolute contradiction to how you or your family can move forward, or how your inner workings aren't capable of moving forward—I encourage you to consider YOUR force. Consider YOUR immense power. As I raised my children, I taught them that sometimes it’s better to Run Silent, Run Deep. Find your people. Look closely at your surroundings… and your glimpses. It’s there that you may be able to see the season for what it truly is.

Our community continues to grow, and we are always open to those interested in joining. I encourage you to explore our social media pages and the other organizations we’ve highlighted that may be in your area and of service to you as well. You are not alone in this season—whether this is your first year missing a loved one or your twelfth or more.

As we look ahead to the New Year, our fourth anniversary, the induction of our newest officers, and new events, we wish you a restful and peaceful holiday. We pray for our troops overseas and those serving through the holidays, and we thank you—for all that you do.

Kat

Kat Johnson is the Executive Chairwoman of Ohio Western Reserve Ladies, a multi-generational military family member, and the founder of Oxygen Coaching Group, where she equips leaders and organizations to serve with impact and integrity.