Giving thanks

November 22, 2021/ Marcy Phelps / Odds & Ends / 2 comments

This week in the U.S., we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. Several years ago, I wrote about how thankful I was for for the people who make a difference by sharing their knowledge. Nothing’s changed on the list, and I could have just re-posted it, but a lot has happened over the past couple of years, and I wanted to create a new list of things I’m thankful for in 2021.

This year seems an especially good one for taking extra time to say thanks. In late 2020 I relocated to and set up my business in a new state – in the middle of a pandemic. And, if we’ve learned anything from Covid, it’s that we are a community. Isolation was kind of fun at first in a weird sort of way. Then we realized that we missed our families and business connections. We missed gathering in public and face-to-face conversations. While we discovered how to work from home, we found that few of us really work alone.

So, in the spirit of the season, here’s my list of what I’m especially thankful for this year:

My fellow private investigators – When it comes to community, private investigators have it figured out. None of us have the skills or the time to meet all of our client requests, and I often need help from others with our investigations. By simply picking up the phone or sending an email, it’s easy to find someone who will say yes. Thank you for that.

My professional associations – The ACFE produced an excellent virtual conference this year, and, instead of in-person workshops, I completed some of their self-paced online course. AIIP‘s virtual events and email discussion list continue to keep me up-to-date as an independent business owner and were a lifeline during the months of isolation. And many thanks to my colleagues at PPIAC, NCISS, and NCAPI. Their advocacy for our profession is priceless.

My Colorado connections – There’s nothing like moving halfway across the country to show how much you miss your friends and business associates who are close by. With Covid restrictions easing here in the U.S., I plan to visit more often, and I’ll still take advantage of technology to stay in touch. Thank you the years of support and collegiality.

My North Carolina connections – It’s been difficult during a pandemic to meet new people, but – thankfully – everyone is so friendly and helpful here in Wilmington. I’m gradually making new friends and business connections and look forward to meeting other NC investigators.

My clients – I’ve worked from home for more than 20 years, so it’s been an easy transition during the pandemic and the move to North Carolina. My clients quickly navigated the changes, and we found new ways to work together in a shifting business environment. Thank you for your continued business.

Many thanks to all who have supported me and my business through these times of change – and Happy Thanksgiving!