Santa Barbara Therapy
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
by Kathleen Barry & Jackie Kurta
Hello to all of you. The opportunity of writing these monthly messages is a special honor and gives us the opportunity to get together as friends to reflect on our work as Chapter board members and as therapists in this wonderful community.

describeThe end of the year message can carry the extra burden of needing to reflect back on the year; the ups and downs, successes and failures. That idea did not challenge us at all. However, as we considered how to approach this month’s message, we found ourselves reflecting on how people choose to view their own world and the world around them, how they choose the lens through which their world is examined. This is a concept many of us may utilize in our work with our clients, and it can lead to an extremely enlightening discussion.

describeSo, go with us on our journey and consider this idea: you are driving in a car, the world ahead of you is viewed through a large, clear windshield, the possibilities are broad and wide open. Now turn your head to look through the rear view mirror, what you see is a constricted, cramped look at what is behind you. The past can be narrow and limiting. Two very different perspectives of the world around us, and the contrasts can be startling. We have made a conscious choice for this month’s message not to look back at 2007, but to look forward to 2008.

Our new website is alive and kicking (albeit with a few hiccups along the way); our monthly luncheon calendar is looking vibrant and invigorating; our new Board members are energetic and excited and our Chapter is nourished and healthy. All ingredients for a successful and magical year ahead. We wish you all a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season. Here’s to a wonderful 2008!


Cheers, Kathleen and Jackie
Copyright © Kathleen Barry & Jackie Kurta, all rights reserved
Reprinted here by permission of the author
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Santa Barbara CAMFT
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