“It takes a village to raise a child.” If you are a parent, I’m sure you can relate. At some point we realize that we cannot meet each and every need of our children, and we do, in fact, need to rely upon one another in our community to help in the raising of our children. Family, friends, support systems, schools, coaches, etc. are all needed to ensure that we develop future generations that will someday become future leaders in our communities. Human beings are social beings, and we need each other.
One of the great things about being a part of the Bethany family is the opportunity I have to visit all of our locations on a fairly regular basis. The unique cultures that exist vary from place to place and I truly enjoy getting to know our residents and staff members. Each location is a unique community unto itself.
However, one of the greatest concerns and biggest challenges that we face is loneliness and solitude. There are residents among us who may not have family to visit or a group of friends with whom they can connect on a regular basis. Although we live in community, and often in close proximity to our neighbors, many of us may not have those friendships or connections that we need. Once we get to know one another we often find out that we have more in common that we thought.
As the Holiday season is upon us and Christmas is just around the corner, I would encourage you to think of what “community” means to you. I believe that all residents have a great and unique opportunity to live in a special community, whether it’s Mission Towers, Phoenix, Four Mile, Merrivista, or Nichols Village. You have been blessed to live in a community with a great diversity of individuals with a lifetime of experiences. You have an opportunity to share those experiences with others. The most important and best advice I can give to you is this – be a good listener, ask questions, show genuine interest in those around you, and again, listen. By showing interest and listening you will make someone feel special, you will make someone feel connected, and you will give them worth. Perhaps this Holiday season the best thing you can give is a little bit of yourself. It’s never too late to make new friends.
It certainly does take a village to raise a child, and it also takes a village to create a lasting, loving, and caring community. Merry Christmas to you all!
“Selfless giving unto others represents one’s true wealth.” - Jon M. Huntsman
