Fall 2020-Wine Club Letter
Fall 2020
Hello Friends,
GOMBATTE KUDASAI!!! When I lived in Japan, I learned this wonderful Japanese phrase full of nuance but hard to translate. It is sort of the equivalent of when we say “good luck” or “ go for it.” My translation would be more like, “I know you have worked very hard, you are exhausted, but keep going, I’m your biggest fan!” I say this to Joey all the time during Harvest. Months without a day off and doing super physically demanding work starts to tire your spirit.
I feel like all of us could use someone cheering us on and whisper in our ears, Gombatte Kudasai. The effects of this pandemic are truly exhausting and have tired our spirits. It is hard to keep going; it is hard to watch the impact of isolation amongst our elderly. It is devastating to hear stories of people who have lost loved ones or friends whose health will never be the same because of the virus. I am saddened by all the closed businesses and families whose livelihoods and dreams have been crushed. Perhaps our youth have lost the most, and when I listen to my children and their friends, my heart aches for them. Distance learning is something to endure, not enjoy. Losing the passion and love for school is a tragedy with unimaginable consequences. Being a teenager, full of hormones and, competitive drive while not connecting with people or playing sports is just downright depressing. I try every day to count my blessings and acknowledge the silver linings of COVID. I have a long list. Unfortunately, the list that identifies the truly messed up part of COVID is much longer. I just want to acknowledge and thank every last one of you. I know you have worked very hard. I know you are exhausted; keep up the good work; I am your biggest fan! And I hear your encouragement and support back. Thank you for taking care of us (Transcendence); your support and love are incredible.
Enjoy these wines, gather safely, and cheer on the people in your life whose spirits are tired.
GOMBATTE KUDASSAI!!
Sara & Joey