The color red. It evokes powerful feelings in us, including warmth,
love and passion. Red also sometimes makes us think of negative things like
anger or danger. With the continuing Coronavirus pandemic, the color red
represents states with high numbers of COVID-19, or hot spots within states.
Both Kansas and Missouri have recently been deemed red states for COVID, and
they may still be when this column is posted.

Since we are now in the midst of the 2020 holiday season, let us be mindful of the
color red in positive ways. Let us reach out to one another in love and joy. And while
we’re at it—let’s take a mental break from the worries of COVID and truly celebrate
the holidays, our most joyous time of year. Take a mental health break and take time to
care for yourself.

Taking a mental break doesn’t mean relaxing on important safety precautions, especially
when Coronavirus numbers of positive cases are spiking. We all need to diligently continue
practicing safety measures—wearing masks, not gathering in large numbers, frequently
washing or sanitizing hands and practicing social distancing. We should do these things
without having to think about them so much. They should become routine, and without rancor.

True contentment is not merely about finding positives in our lives. It’s about focusing on
the positives that we find, and really rejoicing in them. I, myself, have many positives and
much for which to be thankful this holiday season: my life, my family, SKIL and all of you.

When I think of you, I see red—not danger or anger, as the phrase may imply. I see and feel
love. I love every single one of you! And I love being able to serve you. It’s my passion, my joy.

Thank you for the privilege of leading you as SKIL’s President/CEO. Please stay safe and healthy as we
rejoice in the positives of our lives this holiday season.

Love, Shari