We did it. We've made it to the end of 2020.
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The simple joys of the festive season could be just the thing we all need to lift our spirits after an incredibly challenging year.
It has certainly been a year like no other and the hardships and uncertainties that have come with it have forced many of us to confront what really matters.
According to a new Salvos Stores report, one third of Australians say the events of 2020 have made them reassess what's important.
It's a sentiment I've personally experienced and witnessed in others as it's rippled throughout our employees, residents, their families and the communities that surround our aged care centres and retirement villages.
Through everything that's beset our communities this year, from damaging hailstorms and flooding to devastating bushfires and dealing with the pandemic, I am in awe of the pure tenacity demonstrated by everyone who has continued to show up and do their best day after day.
A lot of what's happened this year has shown me just how many people will pitch in and help when the chips are down.
Whether it be our employees, neighbours, local businesses or community organisations, time and again they have surprised and touched us deeply with their ongoing willingness to just get in and get it done.
We are a community-owned, not-for-profit organisation and it is deeply moving to have the communities in which we operate rally around us in this way. It has been incredible.
After a very tumultuous year, it's not surprising that many people are throwing themselves into the end-of-year celebrations to try and recapture a bit of normality.
While the festive season in Australia won't be as different as it will be in other countries still in the grip of frighteningly high COVID transmission rates, some traditions have already fallen by the wayside.
Sitting on Santa's knee for the annual photo was the first thing to go and the much loved local carols in the park events are a non-starter. And Carols in the Domain is set to be a TV event only.
Closer to home, the celebrations at our aged care centres are looking a little different too.
Due to COVID precautions we won't be hosting residents' families and friends for a festive meal.
Visitors need to make an appointment, complete a wellness check and adhere to strict infection control procedures while on site - as they have been doing all year.
One thing that hasn't changed however is people's desire to connect with one another, to share a smile, a laugh, a moment.
Social connection is a gift and one that we are continuing to prioritise for all of our residents and customers, especially during this festive season.
A recent Red Cross survey found that four in five Australians are feeling a greater degree of social connection this festive season than the last, despite the disruption caused by COVID-19.
And 65 per cent crediting these strong connections as the most important factor in helping them get through a rocky year.
The survey also reported strong levels of community trust with 58 per cent believing the community will come together to help in a crisis.
We saw this earlier in the year during the fires and again when the pandemic restrictions first set in.
People were checking in on their neighbours, offering to pick up groceries, run errands or help out with chores - particularly for their older neighbours.
The importance of being kind and reaching out to include and care for the most vulnerable members of our community has come into sharp focus this year.
The importance of being kind and reaching out to include and care for the most vulnerable members of our community has come into sharp focus this year.
With less than three weeks left in the year, it's important to keep this lesson of kindness and connection top of mind.
Remember the older people in your neighbourhood who may have no family to celebrate with.
Give the gift of your time to those who are set to spend the holiday period alone.
Bring back some old-fashioned magic by recreating the seasonal traditions that haven't been affected by COVID restrictions.
String up some lights.
Decorate the tree.
Send hand-written cards.
Tour the neighbourhood light displays.
Watch your favourite Christmas movie.
More than anything this Christmas, it's the joy we can share with one another that matters most rather than the pile of presents under the tree.
- Patrick Reid is CEO of IRT Group