“I believe that children are our future.” Whitney Houston sang it, but I think we all believe it. There are stories in the 24-hour news cycle all the time about young people in our country and in our communities making a negative impact. My experience though, is different. Time and time again, young people in Anchorage have made a positive difference everyday. Here is one account of amazing Anchorage young people.
Reflecting on Lent, I contemplate sacrifice and I think about my parents. I think about how they sacrificed daily in order to give me a good foundation. They gave of their time and their resources. They did not solve my problems for me but they gave their time to help me work out challenges on my own. They did not shower me with money but taught me to work and to earn my own way, all the while sacrificing their resources to help fund my education.
New Year’s resolutions are a renewed focus on areas of our lives we want to improve. For some it is dieting or increased exercise. The stories at CSS have inspired me — and I ask you join me — to focus on a different kind of renewal. This year, let’s try to consciously give and connect with our community. It will not be easy.
Editor’s note: Last May Catholic Social Services Executive Director Susan Bomalaski announced that she was planning to step down after serving in her post for nine years. Her successor, Lisa DH Aquino, was recently hired by the CSS Board of Trustees and will continue providing a column on social justice from Catholic Social Services. This is her first.