By Jimmy Dutra, Watsonville Mayor
The holidays are typically the happiest time of the year. However, this has not been a typical year. Our businesses have taken a financial hit. Food insecurity is at an all-time high. Stimulus checks are not cutting it. Restless nights are more common these days. We are exhausted from the effects of Covid-19. The uncertainty and angst many of us have felt since Covid-19 hit the world and our community have been emotionally and physically draining.
Despite the barriers facing us, I still feel the gratitude of the season. I am grateful to be the new mayor for our vibrant city located in the heart of the Pajaro Valley. I am blessed for my family, friends and everyone who has been instrumental in making our journey a reality. I am thankful for the love and generosity I have seen throughout our community toward those who have fallen on hard times. I am deeply grateful for all of our health care providers and medical support staff who place themselves in harm’s way each and every day. The endless acts of selflessness I have witnessed in Watsonville have shown the beautiful soul of our community. I always say I am a student of life. I am always learning through good and bad times. I believe there are specific moments that give us an opportunity to truly reflect on our lives. It is in those moments that we are able to see the clarity of our personal journey. It is up to us to embrace those opportunities for growth. Even in the darkness of night, we hold on to faith for a new dawn.
As we approach 2021, I am hopeful we will begin to enter a healing time in history. We have a lot of work to do and it is going to take collaboration and cooperation from the entire community. We are all going to have to work together to bring the change we need and deserve. As we continue to recover and grow as a city, it will be imperative now more than ever to have all hands on deck. I look forward to working together in helping our community push through this pandemic. Until then, I wish you all the very best. May your holidays be joyous, and most importantly, safe and healthy. Staying home and sacrificing today, will give us the possibility of a bright tomorrow. Please make sure to wear your masks, social distance and wash your hands. We are so close. We can do this, Watsonville. Happy Holidays!
Mayor’s Update is a recurring column from Watsonville’s Mayor, Jimmy Dutra. His opinions are his own and not necessarily those of the Pajaronian. Contact Dutra at ji*********@ci***************.org .
