Happy Thanksgiving!
Sometimes when life is not going the way we might like it to we forget that in the whole scheme of things, we really do have much to be thankful for. Certainly 2011 has presented many challenges for many people and 2012 will no doubt present us with much of the same. But the reality is, we all have much more to be thankful for than not.
No matter what else is going on in our lives, or how many things we might want to change, life is good! If our lives have been touched in any way by someone with special needs, this is even more true.
As employees at NER, this is not just another job, it goes much deeper than that. None of us could have imagined how special each and every person we serve would touch our lives. In time, we do not see the disability because we see beyond that. We learn to appreciate each person as the unique individuals they are. We learn as much from them, if not more than we are able to teach. They are funny, challenging, frustrating, loving, charming, flirtatious and many other things. These are also words that describe each of us in some way. And each of us should be thankful for that because in being who we are, we are blessed.
Each of you, as a NER employee, has been blessed even more just by sharing your love and attention with people who need and depend on you.
So during this holiday season, be thankful for all that you are and for all that you give to others. Take pride in your work and always remember that you have touched the lives of others in ways you may never even fully realize.
To the families of those we serve, I again say thank you for sharing your loved ones with us. It is indeed our pleasure and we appreciate your continued support. You bring your children to us out of love for them. In doing this, they have the opportunity to go new places, meet and make new friends, and develop relationships that might otherwise not have been possible. You have also given each person who works with them new opportunities that have enriched their lives beyond compare. Thank you all and have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving.
Corrine Schmidt, Administrator
