Thanksgiving is a time when many of us reflect on what we’re most thankful for. It reminds us of how special and beautiful our lives are even when we are faced with challenging and stressful situations. We often look for coping tools to get through tough times, and being thankful is especially important in the midst of a pandemic when the world around us is unpredictable. At Wood’s Homes, the joy of working with children, youth and families, the support we receive from our loyal and generous community tops our list.
In the spirit of the season, we asked our clients and staff what they are thankful for. Here’s what they had to say:
“It has been a tough year. I am thankful for friends who love me and are there for me on the good days and the bad.”
“I am thankful for being alive.”
“I’m thankful that my dad turned 60 years old this year. I’m thankful for his life.”
“I am thankful for doing well in school.”
“I am thankful for the people in my life who have always been there for me and encouraged me to do my best even when I was struggling.”
“I am thankful for my family and my community network who continues to positively support my mental health.”
“I am thankful for everything, but YCAP especially.” (YCAP is our Youth Culinary Arts Program)
“I am thankful for being in a workspace where the youth inspire me with their willingness to learn and do bigger things than they thought they were capable of.”
“I am thankful for fall colours and seeing them every day on my commute to YCAP!”
“I am thankful for schools being open and that my kids are back in sports and activities! They have needed this social interaction and have missed their friends and sports so much (as have I)!”
“I’m thankful for my family and friends and the opportunity to work with a wonderful team every day!”
“I am thankful for a good life—I have a home, food, access to fresh water and medicine, living in a democratic society.”
“I am thankful for my family and children – each hug, smile, laugh and tears make me realize I am loved. I am thankful for the people I work with – they all bring a smile and light to my eyes which shows me I belong. I am thankful for the friendships I have – their ability to lift me up and stand beside me makes me feel special. I am thankful for all those who have stepped up in this impossibly difficult time and made a difference in words and actions – the world needs more people like you!”
“I am thankful that I have a big sister and my nieces.”
“I am thankful for having feelings.”
“I am so thankful for good health this year, and for all of the healthcare workers who are tending to our community’s wellness in this pandemic.”
“I am thankful for having music in my life.”
“I am thankful for my job, for my family and my health. I am also thankful for all the wonderful things that has happened to me and my family in the last year! I can’t ask for more!”
“I am thankful for so much growth. I’ve really learned to love myself and become my own best friend. I’m thankful for forgiveness and for grace in times when I feel as though I am not enough. I’m thankful for Wood’s Homes, for being a huge part of my journey and healing.”
“I’m thankful for my family.”
“I’m thankful for all of the feelings, even the ones that are uncomfortable.”
“I’m thankful for my mom.”
“I’m thankful for family, friends, and staff.”
“I am super thankful I’m still standing, for my family, home, relationship, friends, health, and pets.”
“I’m thankful for happiness.”
“I’m thankful for being helpful.”
“I’m thankful for visits with dad.”
“I’m thankful for my family.”
“That’s hard to answer right now, but I’m thankful for a roof over my head.”
One staff also wanted to share a quote that she loves:
From all of us here at Wood’s Homes, Happy Thanksgiving!
