The irony in her words is hilarious, yet these words effectively manage to communicate our hope for community and convey our fear of facing the unknown alone all in one sentence.

We, in this chapter, are an interconnected community of professionals. As such, how do we go about supporting one another? How do we demonstrate that we are, in fact, “all in this together”? I think we need to start with certain values:

• People are basically good
• Everyone has something to contribute
• Honest, open and considerate communication can bring out the best in people
• Respect for everyone as unique individuals
• Treat others the way we would like to be treated ourselves

The next step is to put these principles into action. That is the mission of your board of directors for the coming year. How do we intend to accomplish this? For a start, we are joining with other local professional organizations to bring you a program in the spring featuring a nationally known, dynamic motivational speaker whose topic will be selling in a difficult market. We are also planning community outreach to our membership, in the form of panels and roundtables on topics of interest to you. We will be asking what your needs are and inviting you to be part of the solution. Are you satisfied with the meetings? Are there changes you would like to see, programs you feel would benefit your business? Then join us in creating a solution and a stronger, more supportive community. We are all in this together.