Bing Crosby singing Silver Bells with Rosemary Clooney puts me straight into the holiday spirit. Their voices blend and harmonize; weaving a cozy feeling with vivid scenes of a bustling city frozen in time. 

As a student in the Music Department at CSU Chico I practiced vocal harmonies on a nearly daily basis.  Sometimes with a large group of choral singers, but often alone in a small practice room where I could dedicate myself to practicing without fear of making a mistake in front of others. Vocalists can feel vulnerable or anxious about outside criticism because our instrument is our own unique sound. But criticism is essential for improving; getting feedback from peers or a mentor can make all the difference between a mediocre performance and one that can truly move an audience. 

I had wonderful mentors who developed and owned tremendous talent, and with their support I got more than an inkling of my potential. I was not seeking a professional career in music. I simply loved to sing and that enthusiasm is what drove me to finish my college degree.  The underlying lessons of how to sustain a daily devotion to practice for a performance or recital, and how to work with others to create a harmonious sound and fluid performance were the experiences of a lifetime. 

Our work as caregivers needs to be fluid. Needs to be harmonious. Needs a dedication that pushes us to do our best.  Offering and receiving feedback from one another makes us stronger. Makes us sing. For my gifted team — thank you for singing along with me. 

I hope that this holiday season brings each of you moments of harmony to help sustain the dedication you show each day to your loved ones and to the compassionate care of our residents.