What a wonderful time of year! It brings out the best in so many people. Frankly, it reminds me of ASHHRA members. As I look back over the past year, one moment stands out: the amazing heroics of the people who overcame significant challenges to come together with their colleagues at the annual conference. It was a planes, trains and automobiles feat of accomplishment. It demonstrated how important it was for all us to come together. We consistently hear that the connection with trusted colleagues is a primary draw for the annual conference. We learn so much from each other and from being part of this association.

We are people who recognize the power of HUMAN resources. We understand that in our industry, of all places, the people who work with us and for us are the patient experience. 

My absolute favorite movie of all time is "It’s a Wonderful Life" (1946). As I have dissected why I love this film, it is because it shows in very clear examples how one life changes everything. That is the power of our work; that is the power of our industry. One life does change everything... the wonderful nurse, the amazing physician, the CNA, the therapist, the nutritionist, the biller, the IT professional, the HR professional.

We are an amazing group of people. People who individually, and collectively, care for others—others who come to us in their most vulnerable moments. As we think about the best way to live a life, working in health care matters. As one who came from industry, I can tell you that working in health care is a great life, in fact for me, it is a wonderful life.