Greetings UJAA Family,

As 2022 draws to a close, it is a time for many of us to reflect on all that the year brought us, and to move into 2023 with our New Year’s Resolutions. It is a time when many typically resolve to accomplish personal goals or change undesired traits. Statistically, the most popular resolutions are around self-improvement (living healthier, exercising, losing weight) or achieving career goals. I urge each of us to also look towards improving relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, and to lead with kindness. The past few years have been very difficult for many of us. Some have lost loved ones, experienced serious illnesses, or have lost jobs. As many of us see each other for the first time in almost three years, please recognize that there are some among us who have been profoundly changed by the global pandemic and all its after-effects.

As we go about our daily lives, may we all live by one of my favorite quotes: “Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?”

May we all choose to lead with kindness in 2023.

Sending you all my very best wishes for the New Year.

Natasha A. Davids
Director
UJAA

“Education is Empowerment; Only the Educated are Free”