Like many of you, I came to work in our field because of my own personal journey and challenges. I have always believed that there is something to learn from extraordinary experiences. If given a choice, I’m sure I would have chosen an easier path; however, I would have missed out on some invaluable life experiences that have shaped me and given me gifts that will forever be part of who I am.
Similarly, if given a choice, I would have preferred to skip the trials that this past year has brought. But in this time of reflection, I know in my heart that the hardships have uniquely shaped all of us in different ways and we are stronger for it.
It’s easy to dwell on the challenges that came with 2020 but instead of recounting the difficulties (of which there were many), I want to express my gratitude for the good fruit it has produced instead:
- In an unprecedented time, our organizations met the needs of over 320 clients both at Integrative Life Center and Begin Again Institute.
- I am blessed to work with creative healers who were able to provide telehealth options in addition to face-to-face treatment.
- I have a heart-centered CEO in Ryan Chapman, exemplified by the number of partial and full scholarships he issued for clients to continue their healing journeys when finances were an obstacle.
- We have an integrous admissions team that is unafraid to say, “we’re not the right fit,” and help steer a client to a place best suited for their needs, even when our own census may be low.
- We have founders that keep us focused on the mission of the work even when times are uncertain.
- We have a staff that not only are heart-centered but have a thirst for knowledge that enables our organization to continue to grow and improve.
- Lastly, we have each of you who entrust your clients to our programs. We may not do everything perfectly, but I’m grateful that strong partnerships, creative collaboration and grace in the difficult times help us all get better in the end.
Integrative Life Center
