They are givers of time, patience, laughter, kindness and love
They are funny and vivacious…humble and shy
They are the ones that know and remember that the hole in your favorite sweater was made by your cat
They use cool words like ‘spiffy’
They are spiritual guides and spirit guides
They are healers, teachers, artist, dancers, story tellers and first-generation immigrants
They have worked in the fashion industry, banking, media, hospitality, health care, and the big world of ‘corporate’
They are the voice on the other end of the phone and on the loading dock saying,
‘thank you for your donation’ or
‘how are you?’
They are the singing song from across the room
They are the smile that greets you
The hands that hold open the door
The quick minds and fast feet that help us all stay organized in so many ways
They are advocates, late life rebels, and community builders for those who without them would have no community
They are world travelers, avid readers, lifelong learners
They are sisters, brothers, tios y tias, life partners, wives, husbands… widows and widowers
They are friends and strength and support to each other
They are full hearts easing the way of participants and staff who thrive when known by others
They are our ground
And, wherever they are, they show up in the most human of ways, ready to be a spread hope
by Jennifer Thater
