Season’s Greetings to all. You may notice that I am not Harry. More on that next month. But until then…
2020 was, without exaggeration, a year that will live in infamy. From COVID to the elections, the stress level of the country reached record highs. Loss of life was heartbreaking. Loss of connection to friends, family, and colleagues difficult. But, with a slight Twist on Dickens, while it was the worst of times, it was at points, the best of times. It allowed our greatest angels to prevail and many oft forgotten heroes to step forth and get the recognition they so richly deserve. We took pause and a deep breath. We went to the balcony. We showed resilience and ingenuity. We learned how to connect. We adapted. We persevered. And importantly, we remembered our priorities and gained appreciation for those around us who sustain us in every way.
As Collaborative Professionals, 2020 reinforced the process. It was both suitable for and adaptable to the socially distant world. 2020 re-enforced that Courts are not the optimum forum for the resolution of disputes, especially between families. That the Collaborative Process provides not only a safe, private procedure focused upon the parties’ unique goals and interests, but one that is also more efficient, expedient, and comprehensive. As the courts’ backlog of cases increased as a result of dockets being brought to a halt in 2020, the accessible, suitability and attractiveness for the Collaborative Process only heightened.
2020 also reinforced the reputation of Collaborative Professionals. All of us showed the adaptability and flexibility that are the hallmarks of the Collaborative Process. Meetings were moved online. We worked diligently to ensure that our clients’ issues and lives were not put on hold, not delayed, even if that put our technology skills (or lack thereof) to the test. We helped each other so we could all help others through the most difficult time in their lives- made more difficult by the extraordinary times in which we are living. So, I applaud you all.
Notwithstanding that COVID cases are growing, there remains hope in new effective treatments and (fingers-crossed) an effective vaccine in early 2021. There is hope that we will soon return to our so-called normal life. But as we do, let us not forget the lessons we have learned in 2020. The focus and resolve we have exhibited, both personally and professionally should remain. Let us not lose sight of the opportunity ahead that we may not have been aware of or would have previously taken for granted. Let us all take pride in what we have achieved for our clients, our professions and ourselves, and humbly meet the future with renewed optimism and vigor.
So enjoy and relish this Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza seasons, keep safe, recharge and be ready welcome the New Year with open arms.
