As we head towards the end of 2020, it’s good to look ahead and think about what the new year may unveil.
But first, let’s take a quick look back. As I reflect on this year, I am reminded of one of my favourite songs by Simon & Garfunkel, “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” A timeless song that crosses the spectrum of musical genres and has been covered by a multitude of diverse artists, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, Jon Bon Jovi/Richie Sambora, Bella River, and John Legend. And isn’t it fitting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the song, which seems to have so much meaning for a year where we have all encountered our share of “troubled water.” A song that brings solace and reassurance during a time of uncertainty and despair.
Bridges have a number of symbolic meanings that resonate with my experience. Simplistically they are a means by which we reach our desired destination, an opportunity to connect with people you have never met or places you have never been. More importantly, they represent a way to overcome the obstacles that may lurk below us in that “troubled water” and reach a “better place.” A glance over the bridge looking straight down may engender fear, but when we look out onto the horizon, it may reveal a perfect sunrise or sunset reflecting off the water. Even more exciting is the potential for hope that lies on the other side of that bridge.
Each of us have been challenged this year in a variety of ways to find our centre as we navigate the shockwaves created by this COVID-19 pandemic. We have been able to make our way through uncharted waters during the coronavirus crisis for which I am very grateful.
In this regard, I would like to give a huge thank you to all my colleagues – Thank you for all your wonderful contributions towards the growth and success of our company. We strive to put our clients at the heart of everything we do, and we would sincerely like to thank all our clients, the many long-term and new clients we serve for their trust, their support and their excellent cooperation with us.
However, let us not forget about others who haven\’t been that fortunate. Therefore, we are donating to the German Maritime Search and Rescue Association (DGzRS) to help keep them on course.
Of course, there is always a lot of work ahead and I do have a wish list for Santa Claus, which I would like to share with you:
I wish for a team that continues to embrace change. With digitalization changing our work, this is so important. The Dalai Lama once said, “The greatest gift you can give a child is to prepare him for great change”. The road to successful company can be rocky, but I am confident that our team will be ready to embrace all the upcoming challenges and to adapt quickly.
