It seems like a strange time to be celebrating a workplace anniversary right now, but nevertheless, it is something worth celebrating. My second anniversary with Iowa IPL was last week. As you can probably imagine, I had a hard time coming up with something to write in the days leading up to both my anniversary, as well as this year’s General Election. If I’m being completely honest, I still don’t feel as though I have exactly the right words to say, but there are a few things I am taking comfort in during this time.
I take comfort in the fact that Iowa IPL, as well as my communities outside of the office, are doing the good work – not just as stewards of the earth, but as stewards for each other. We pick each other up; we hold each other; this is what community is all about.
I take comfort in knowing that I can lean on those same communities for support. In the past two years, in my work and otherwise, I’ve met people who have truly impacted my life in amazing ways. Every message I have received from friends and community members this past week has felt like a big, warm, much-needed hug.
Finally, I take comfort in hope. It isn’t just something I am leaning into – I am throwing myself into it. When all seems lost, hope, faith, and love abound amidst our communities. We inspire one another to keep going, each and every day. Together we will continue to do the good work; together we will lift each other up; together we will continue to move forward with hope.
Comfort and peace,
Ren Mattson, Program Associate