What You Do Matters.

Here’s a message I shared with my division at “The Q” on Monday. I think it applies to many who are sacrificing and putting the needs of others above their wants, not just the people I work with. As we traverse this new landscape, it’s important that people understand their actions have value.

I want to express my gratitude for your professionalism and eagerness to face today’s challenges and uncertainty with grace. We are at the beginning of an effort that can change the trajectory of events for our community and our state. Everyone has a role in ensuring the wellbeing and safety of our community, whether by avoiding large gatherings or speaking about how this virus impacts vulnerable populations. What you do matters to your neighbors.

As we hunker down and work from home, continue to communicate with one another as if only a cube wall separated you. When you learn new ways of accomplishing tasks, please share them with your coworkers, managers and friends at work. If you have ideas, I want to hear them. Bring them forward. As you practice social distancing, don’t be distant socially. What you do matters to your coworkers.

Over the weekend, we were faced with a difficult decision to ramp down our office staff to limit the chance of exposure. This will bring new challenges. We are tasked with accomplishing our mission, and we are charged with ensuring your safety and well-being. We are also cognizant of the impact our work can have on the ability to manage this pandemic in Texas, as well as the speed with which the state recovers. As public servants, we have a trust to keep. I ask that you keep the spirit of public service alive in your hearts as you carry out you duties, regardless of where you are working. What you do matters to Texans.

Thank you for all you do and all you will do in the weeks ahead. It matters.

-Dave