2021: PURPOSE, RESILIENCE AND PROMISE

The conclusion of one year and the beginning of the next naturally invites a space for reflection, introspection and gratitude. Given the complex magnitude of what we have collectively experienced over the course of 2020, no summation will ever feel entirely adequate.

So I will simply offer my observations and revelations. This is what I know to be true after 10 months of living through an extraordinary series of events.

The duality of our democracy is that it is simultaneously fragile and formidable. The inequities in our society have always been shocking, and are now inescapable. And systems can only be dismantled when each of us accepts our share of responsibility to work for lasting inclusivity and equality.

More personally, I have developed an appreciation for connection over consumption. I have been reminded that super heroes do exist, and I count my surgeon father among them as he scrubs in every day. I have been reminded that people will show up in extraordinary ways, if you provide them with the opportunity.

I found this last revelation was perhaps the most valuable and powerful. It has been in the vulnerable and humbling process of bringing to consciousness my deepest wounds, that I opened myself up to profound joy, earnest connection, and genuine love… realizing the full spectrum of my humanity and embracing its myriad of emotions.

One of the most poetic analyses of our present circumstances comes from the philosopher Alain de Botton in his 2020 New York Times editorial:

“Citing The Plague by Albert Camus, ‘A plague is merely a concentration of a universal precondition…’ This should not lead us to despair. Quite the opposite, it should lead us to a softening of the heart, a turning away from judgment and moralizing and a turning towards joy and gratitude. Panic suggests a short term response to a short term condition from which we can eventually find safety. But there can never be real safety. So we need to love our fellow damned humans and work without despair for the amelioration of suffering. Life is a hospice, not a hospital.”

I remain determined to “work without despair”, to avoid the common and easy traps of perpetual outrage, pessimism or apathy. I recognize that I am distinctly privileged to be living the life I am; equally privileged and proud to devote my efforts and energy to an industry I greatly value and respect.

As many around us continue to wage a daily struggle, our collective insurance community persists with purpose, resilience and promise.

I am sincerely grateful for your connection to Tangram and your commitment to the industry. I look forward to brighter days ahead.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday,

Rekha

Rekha Skantharaja | President & CEO
[email protected] | 707.775.2662