As I join many of you in celebrating the holidays with friends and family, I’ve been taking a moment to slow down and reflect on the year behind us, and the one ahead. 

I’m always thinking about how we can be better together. About finding a little more peace with the people we love, a little more purpose in how we spend our time, and a little more intention in how we show up for one another.

Here at the County, that spirit carries into the work ahead — making sure more neighbors have a safe place to call home, standing up for people who don’t have a voice, and lending a helping hand when it’s needed most. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s who we are.

San Diego is a place of generosity, resilience, and possibility. And when we choose compassion, speak up for what’s right, and look out for one another, even small acts can make a real difference.

That’s something the story of Hanukkah reminds us of: even a small light can push back the darkness.

May we carry that light, and that spirit of hope and resilience, into the year ahead.