Dear Fortis Leadership Family and Friends,

You have been on my mind and heart over the past several weeks.

I am certain, like me, you never imagined that we would be experiencing a global pandemic such as this, requiring each of us to pivot in the way we go about our daily lives.

During this season of change, perhaps like many of you, I have had a bit more time to reflect upon the past, present and the future.

Some of those reflections bring to mind some moments during my teenage years. Like any teenager with a driver’s license, I enjoyed my freedom and was consistently on the go.

Because I was told to stay home more than once, there is one particular saying that I recall my sweet 82-year old Mom sharing with me, as I contested her discipline.

I recall her echoing a time or two during my stay at home days, “Jan Kristi, you just need to bloom where you are planted.”

I don’t know about you, but when your Mom uses your middle name, you naturally listen up. Even though I am certain I rolled my eyes, I remember her words, just like it was yesterday.

As I reflect on what this season in life is all about, and what this season will have taught me once it has passed, I can’t help but think, this is indeed is a time for me to bloom where I am planted.

So, what does that mean for me, and perhaps for you?

Perhaps it means that you can:

• Be intentional. Take the opportunity to encourage those you come in contact with. Make your words count, as you speak with kindness and empathy.
• Take inventory. How are your relationships? Is there an opportunity to clear the air with a coworker and take your relationship to a positive, new level? Download this Relationship Inventory [PDF]!
• Let go of grudges. Look for ways to find value in each person, even if you have been at odds with them. Take it one step further and let them know what you value about them.
• Send a card. Write an actual letter on 8.5×11 paper and send it in the mail or make a phone call. Is there someone that could use a good word, showing that you care, by lifting their spirits and yours?
• Detox from the news. Rather than scrolling the recent news on your phone, or flipping the channels, click on your Kindle app and read that book that you ordered some time ago.
• Look people in the eyes. Eye contact is a form of bonding. Whether you are connecting remotely, or across the room, look people in the eyes, show them you are present.
• Get outdoors. If you are able, go for a walk. Open a window or sit near a window. Look for the beauty that springs forth from nature.
• Create that recipe. You may discover there is a master chef waiting to emerge!
• Ask yourself: After this season has passed, what have I learned? How have I stepped into a better version of me? What is it that I want to carry forward through this season and what is it that I want to leave behind? Think of those things that will lead to a more fruitful life on behalf of those you love and lead?

I truly believe that transformational change happens from the inside-out. Perhaps in these current times, it will happen – literally! – as you stay home, inside. You will indeed, bloom where you are planted.

In closing, I know that many of you are faithfully serving those on the frontlines in healthcare, both in the private and public sector.

Some of you are leaders serving your employees and team members, helping them to adjust to remote working situations, and all that comes with the recent changes in homes and in the workplace.

Some of you are in and among our college campuses, keeping the students and surrounding community safe.

On behalf of the Fortis Leadership team, we would like to thank you for your tireless efforts in leading with intention and compassion, during these challenging times.

As we all go through this season of uncertainty together, my hope and my prayer is that each of you stay healthy, in mind, body, and spirit.

My hope is that when this time has passed, you will see the fruit of your faithfulness that this season has brought to you, and those that you have been entrusted to lead.

“I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees their fruit.”
– Timeless and Ancient Principle