(Note: WesleyLife President and CEO Rob Kretzinger extended this Thanksgiving greeting to the organization's 2,000+ team members in advance of the holiday. May his "presence, not presents" message resonate with you as you celebrate with those close to you. Happy Thanksgiving from WesleyLife!)
Recently, I read about a survey that queried adults in the U.S. about their favorite holiday. The survey’s authors had expected that in as in years past, the response would be Christmas. They were surprised to find Thanksgiving is now the reported favorite holiday, with many commenters expounding on the theme: “There are no presents. There’s no commotion. Our family can just focus on one another.”
We might feel the same. Thanksgiving, in its purest form, is a gift to each one of us, inviting us to slow down, disconnect, and be intentional about acknowledging the blessings that abound.
I will be blessed on Thanksgiving, as I am daily, by the love of my wife, my children, and my grandchildren — six of them now, including three born just this year! I also am blessed significantly by the opportunity to serve alongside each of you. At WesleyLife, we are united in a desire to enrich the lives we touch, but that desire would mean little without the commitment you all bring to your roles. Quite simply, your work reflects the heart of our vision.
Our work is a calling — a way to live out God’s love and grace in practical, everyday actions. Colossians 3:23 reminds us: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Whether you are providing direct care or supporting others who do so, know that your efforts are part of something much bigger than any individual task.
Each one of us has been tested this year; perhaps by a specific thing, perhaps by many things. I have had the privilege of speaking with many of you about various challenges, and so often, your patience, and humility reflect the love of Christ, who calls us to serve others selflessly. I am humbled by your continued dedication to our residents, their families, and one another.
As we look to the future, let us remember that we are not just WesleyLife team members; we are stewards of God’s love and grace, sharing that love through our work. I encourage you to continue finding joy in your work, knowing that you are making a profound difference.
Thank you for your tireless service and your compassionate hearts. May the joy that abounds in those you love surround you on Thanksgiving — making the day, with its focus not on presents, but on presence — your favorite holiday.
With deepest gratitude,
Rob Kretzinger
President and CEO, WesleyLife
