Considering that I have been to three funerals of best friends and family within the past two weeks, it might seem ironic to hear me say that I have so much to give thanks for this year.  In fact, these funerals have enabled us to share our fondest memories, reflect on the legacies that each have left us with and to inspire us to reach out for what's really important in our lives....the other people in our lives.

This Thanksgiving, I reach out to you, to offer you thanks and appreciation for the time we've spent together this year.  Each moment with you has provided me with many opportunities to learn more about you, your organization, and myself in the process.  I am honored to be part of your life, your team, and your organization's vision in moving forward next year.

Each month throughout the year, you have allowed my leadership musings to reach out to you in my newsletter.  Thank you for the opportunity to share these personal and poignant stories.  It is my way of providing leadership lessons to engage your mind, touch your heart, stir your soul and call you to action. 

Aunt Anne:  Strength of the Human Spirit

Aunt Anne had Alzheimer's for more than 15 years.  During her illness, her family never institutionalized her.  Instead, they provided her with loving care in the comfort of their own home.  Her husband hired others to come into their home when he could no longer take care of her on his own.  Her daughter, grown and with a family of her own  to care for, visited on weekends to help her dad and mom.  

                                            

The strength of the human spirit to survive 15 years in the loving care of family and friends is an amazing thing to witness.  Even more amazing is the loyalty and devotion of her family and friends who continued to support and care for her during that time. 

Nanny Boo:  Family is Everything

Nanny Boo raised her three young children all by herself after losing her husband in a tragic car crash that injured herself and her children as well.  She worked full time and cared full time.  Her small home brimmed to the bursting point with her kids, neighbor's kids and school friends of her kids.  It was a happy home led by a quiet, mild-mannered mom.  She was independent, self-sufficient, and classy.  She showed all the kids - not just her own - the importance of family and friends.  No matter what the challenge is that lies in front of you, the love and care that your family and extended family of friends offers you is ever supporting, ever comforting, ever there.

Suzy:  A Friend Loveth At All Times

Suzy's minister remarked on how many times he had seen friends fade away during serious illnesses, yet Suzy's friends rallied instead, providing comfort to her, her family and to each other throughout her most recent hospitalization.  Meals were brought to her home every night, turns were taken at the hospital to stay with her round-the-clock, and assistance was given with funeral service arrangements.  To a standing room only crowd which overflowed out of the chapel and into the adjoining lobby areas, Suzy's friends demonstrated their love for her and were a powerful testament to a valued and treasured friend.  Beyond the service, these same friends continue to demonstrate their love for Suzy by extending and accepting invitations to her grown children to join us for dinner on her birthday to celebrate her and offering symbols of our friendship with her and now with them for years to come. Truly, a friend loveth forever.

May this Thanksgiving be the time to reflect upon the strength of the human spirit, put family first and love your friends at all times and forever more. 

With love and light,