Chris Klemaske, President, The VOICE Newsletter, December 2023

I have discovered that 3:00 a.m. thoughts are something I have in common with most of my friends and colleagues so I have decided to share one of my reoccurring 3:00 a.m. thoughts that I finally googled, and it seemed like it would be appropriate for our newsletter.

What is the difference between Gratitude and Grateful?

Gratitude is a way of being. Gratitude is present regardless and irrelevant to any promise of an outcome. It should simply be a part of our daily consciousness. Grateful is a feeling. Being grateful is usually followed by a thank you.

Last year at this time I was made aware of The Five-Minute Journal and decided to get one for myself. It’s a simple journal. Every morning you list three things that you are grateful for, three things that would make the day great and a daily affirmation. At the end of the day, you list three highlights of the day and lastly, what did I learn today? This intentional practice has changed the way I start my day, when I wake up in the morning before anything I am simply grateful for being given another day.

Why is this the subject of this month’s newsletter? I have been reflecting on this last year and the challenges and changes we have faced and overcome and the challenges we still face at ASCC. Everyone, and each person is working hard to come up with ideas and strategies to ensure that ASCC stays the strong organization it has always been and always will be.

ASCC is an organization of Leaders. Every person on The ASCC staff is a leader in their field of expertise. It shows every day in their dedication and the care they take in their positions. They are all collectively and individually committed to the success and well-being of the ASCC.

Our members are all super stars in their given professions and all of you volunteer your time and treasure to keep our organization focused, and relevant to benefit our group and our industry. ASCC is more than a concrete organization, it is a culture and a commitment by each and every one of us to make our industry safer, informed and provide leadership in our chosen profession. ASCC is where the experts come to learn from the experts. It is perfectly said on our website, “The ASCC is a concrete contractors association with a purpose. We are the unified voice for the concrete contractor, helping them maintain a stronger presence in the construction industry.”

I am grateful for each one of you. Thank you for all that you do and give to continue our successful journey. I look forward to seeing everyone at The World of Concrete.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.