Merry Christmas from The James Allen Companies

What does Christmas mean to you?

Is it about giving, receiving, a celebration of your faith or an opportunity to see and celebrate with your neighbors? Have you taken the past weeks to deck your halls in colorful lights, decorations and Christmas trees that reach to your ceilings or perhaps take these moments of rest to serve the less fortunate, volunteering to distribute gifts and needed food, so that every person you can possibly help has a reason to be joyful?

As a recruiter, I get to interact and talk to people from every walk of life, some incredibly successful and others who are simply looking for a place to start living the best version of their life. If I have discovered anything in my life, private or professional, it is that what separates us is far less than what brings us together.

What do all of us want? The answer may vary in detail, but I bet any answer would fall under the umbrella of health, safety, security and—ultimately—happiness.

Navigating the needs of clients and trying to put a candidate on a career-defining track can be a challenge, but having the opportunity to help the people we work with take one more step into the territory of happiness, to put down roots or to grow in such a way that enables future prosperity for the person or an organization, that has a lasting effect not only in my own mind but within the Insurance industry. 

We accomplish what we do by finding common ground, communicating the way we would want to be communicated with and ensuring that every action we take accomplishes the maximum good. 

One of my favorite Christmas stories is the story of the empty chair at Christmas dinner. In one of the many versions of the story, the children ask their father, “Why do we leave an empty chair at the table? Is someone coming to dinner?” The answer is a little more complicated than yes or no. The chair is for the unexpected visitor.

The tradition has its roots in Poland, where it is still a common practice to this day. It may also have a connection to the Christmas Story where, because there was no room for Mary and Joseph in the inn, they were forced to take refuge in the stable. Whatever the origin, the meaning is clear. We should always be prepared to be kind, generous and sympathetic when given the opportunity. We should choose to give when others cannot.

When we have the opportunity to help, we should. That’s what living and working in our communities is all about. It is the fundamental principle that helps us grow as individuals and professionals. It is what allows us to build trust and form relationships that have benefited our businesses and lives over the years. It is the spirit of giving and grace that drives me to consistently serve, to provide the perspectives and the push they may need to do more and ultimately contribute more.

The insurance industry was built to provide protection for the people, places and things we hold dear, to ensure that even though the night may be dark, the morning will always come. Christmas is the same in spirit where even though we know to expect the unexpected, there is a road forward for all of us. 

No matter what your reason is for celebrating, all of us at The James Allen Companies wanted to take a moment to thank you for making this past year one of strengthening connections and new professional friendships. 

Peace on earth, good-will to men. Merry Christmas.