Family Promise- April 2022 Newsletter Written by Jeff Corby, Americhoice Federal Credit Union and Jean Keller-Thau, FPHCR Board President.
As April comes and goes, so does a start to a new season. Often when we think of a change in the season, we think of a change in our lives. Changes come in all shapes and forms. April showers feel like a washing away of all the stuff left over from the cold and snow that has just passed. With the washing clean of April showers, this time of year can be positive and transformative. It is an opportunity to wash away the negativity that the past year has brought and a chance to really focus on all of the positive aspects of our day-to-day interactions. Family Promise is an organization that strongly believes in renewal and second chances, facilitating positive change in the families we serve.
This month also brings us April Fool’s Day, giving each one of us a chance to add a little silliness and foolishness into our daily routines. With a little more laughter and a little less seriousness, there is time to take a moment to celebrate the fun and silliness that can impact others around us. Laughter has a way of reducing the stress of everyday life. Family Promise encourages all of our families and volunteers to really enjoy our moments together. We all have stressful and challenging times that can sap our energy. We want to instill and encourage work and play. The idea of work and play is crucial for our overall well-being. Finding joy in our lives is essential in managing our everyday anxieties and worries. By adding a little play and a bit of foolishness back into our routine, we can add more relaxation and enjoyment in our lives and others around us.
Throughout this past year, the pandemic has changed all of our routines and attitudes. One unexpected benefit has been the opportunity to focus on our families, relationships, friends, and personal needs. This provides a place for us to express joy for ourselves and others. By making a personal commitment to appreciate the small things that bring us happiness, we can make a lasting and positive impact on those around us. Take a moment to appreciate a little of the silliness around you, spread some joy to others, and be thankful for the joy you get from those in your life. As you’re taking the time to think about your experience of joy, we hope you enjoy some of the fun and silliness that our families here at Family Promise are experiencing!
Emilia Earhart once said, “A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees”. This is a powerful idea that kindness, joy, and fun make such an impact on those around us. As the cold winter season ends, let the April showers wash away the worries of the past. This will make room for kindness and joy to sprout in your everyday interactions and grow like wildflowers with all of the people around you!