The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day of

the year for the northern hemisphere, it also symbolizes

the official beginning of winter.

For me? It has been a very busy few months since

my last letter in September. I have blessed with snow

in the mountains of Colorado, been to prison (Angola

and Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women), experienced summer weather in December in

Florida and spent a week in NYC.

As I approach the end of 2022 and the arrival of 2023- I am filled with gratitude and joy because I love being a part of this community. I am so inspired by the progress we are making. New laws are being created, quality training is more accessible and affordable, systems are evolving and our collective response is improving. We are slowly- but surely- becoming more rooted in equity and belonging as we create spaces that are more inclusive and diverse.

I am inspired.

I am filled with hope.

I am thankful.

Also- I am keenly aware that we still have a long way to go. The holiday season is full of blessing and bounty for many, but also heavy with many complicated and painful feelings for others.

Together we can make a difference -brick by brick.

I hope that we have a chance to connect and collaborate as we aim to change the world in 2023.

Warmest of regards-

Myra Strand