Last Updated on August 10, 2023
I don’t take anything for granted and appreciate everything about life, especially the small things. I try to look at every aspect of life in the most positive way possible and to look at both sides of a situation before acting. My goal this year to have a closer working relationship with the Administration and the Board of Trustees, advocating for your views, has been fulfilled by keeping in mind that others wear different shoes and imagining what it would feel walking in them. I truly believe that this has been my strength as a leader; to bring people together to encourage and support each other, though they may not think alike. I used to be a perfectionist, and in some ways, still am, but I have learned to let go of the notion that perfection is the goal; instead, I concentrated on making the best of every situation. There’s usually a silver lining to difficult situations if we take time to reflect on the situation. I have been a life-long learner with a goal to learn something new every day. That which was learned may not have been what I wanted to learn, nevertheless I learned. When things did not go my way, I had to remind myself to keep things in perspective. Perfection is the enemy of action. Even a small step forward is progress. I have been blessed with a wonderful team, who has challenged me, allowed me the freedom to spread my wings and supported me along our journey together during my year as President. Because of them every step taken has made some progress in making Charlestown a better place.
Many times you have heard my comments about the work of the Committees at monthly Council meetings or read them in previous Sunburst articles. It bears repeating that Committees are the lifeblood of the Residents’ Council and I continually encourage you to be part of them. We have all been successful at life, one way or another, and just because we are “retired” doesn’t mean that we cease to exist. We have years left to enjoy; things to do; places to go and knowledge to impart. You can be a service to others and share your wisdom. You could be the ‘book’ about a subject that others did not get to read but had wanted to learn. You can inspire others to come out of their shells to enjoy this vibrant community in which we live. We can all contribute something no matter how small for our common good. Think I am ageless, I am able! Okay, I am an incorrigible cheerleader. But I really do believe that sharing of myself, one way or another, is the best use of the time I have left on this earth.
Speaking of Committees, they who have carried out the work of the Council this year. I admire all of them and consider them my friends for life. They have contributed their varied and amazing talents to make this year the best that we could. Most goals set for the year by each Committee Chair were met and continue to be worked on. THANK YOU, TEAM!
Work for a cause, not for applause. Live Life to express, not to impress. Don’t strive to make your presence noticed, but to make your absence felt! This is the motto that I have followed this year as your president. It has been a privilege and an honor to have had the chance to represent you and I have no words to express my gratitude. My term is over on August 14th but my efforts on your behalf will never cease. Like Forest Gump said: “Life is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you will get.” So, I will embrace whatever lies ahead.
Please join us on Monday, August 14 at 3 pm in the Auditorium for the Annual Session of the Residents’ Association as we welcome the newly elected Residents’ Council Committee Chairs and installed the 2023-2024 Officers.
The regular monthly meeting of the Residents’ Council is Tuesday, Aug. 1st at 3 PM in the Auditorium. Come get your cookie.
Council President, 2022-2023