Jill Richards gives her acceptance to lead the Kansas State Council in 2016-2016
Our theme for this year is "ESA, Making a Difference...". What kind of a difference has someone made in your life? Think of five different people who have. Of course first we think of our parents. Then maybe siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other family members along the way. What about people at church, a Sunday School teacher or a pastor? We have all had our favorite teachers. That first love.... Friends, whether they are forever friends or just for a season, they are here, placed in our lives, to get us through our journey. Our spouses, obviously make significant differences in our lives. And then come our kids, my two have made a huge difference in my life. I know yours do, too. Co-workers along the way, and yes that means a boss or two. All have influenced our lives in different ways.
And then we join this awesome organization, ESA!! What a difference we each make in the lives of our sisters and brothers every day. Whether it is a card in the mail, a hug when we meet, a text just to say hello, or a phone call, yes, the little things do make a huge difference. Then we, together, impact a lot of others through our local philanthropic organizations, and through Heartspring, Goodwill, Cappers, Hope for Heroes, and St Jude, just to name a few.
Are you ready to be MAD this year and make a difference?!?! The difference I am challenging you to make this year is through your local homeless shelters, safe homes, and places that help others get away from human trafficking. Reach out to these places and see what their needs are, then strive to meet those needs, whether it is making the mats out of the plastic grocery sacks for the homeless demonstrated this past January at the District A meeting, fixing bags of toiletries for safe homes, or making donations to Dress for Success. Do you remember several years ago, under the leadership of Phyllis Simmons, we were able to donate the undergarments and cash valued at over $2,000.00 to that organization? I can only imagine what a difference that made. This is my challenge to you this year. Let’s work together to be MAD and make a difference.
As you think about making a difference, and you know this has to be mentioned, reach out to others, sharing the differences ESA has made in your lives. Share the stories about fun times, the things you do and plan to do, and let us grow in our membership. One small spark can light a fire in a new member.
I love and appreciate you all so very much. Thank you again for all that you do to make a difference in the lives of others. You truly are ESA!
And then we join this awesome organization, ESA!! What a difference we each make in the lives of our sisters and brothers every day. Whether it is a card in the mail, a hug when we meet, a text just to say hello, or a phone call, yes, the little things do make a huge difference. Then we, together, impact a lot of others through our local philanthropic organizations, and through Heartspring, Goodwill, Cappers, Hope for Heroes, and St Jude, just to name a few.
Are you ready to be MAD this year and make a difference?!?! The difference I am challenging you to make this year is through your local homeless shelters, safe homes, and places that help others get away from human trafficking. Reach out to these places and see what their needs are, then strive to meet those needs, whether it is making the mats out of the plastic grocery sacks for the homeless demonstrated this past January at the District A meeting, fixing bags of toiletries for safe homes, or making donations to Dress for Success. Do you remember several years ago, under the leadership of Phyllis Simmons, we were able to donate the undergarments and cash valued at over $2,000.00 to that organization? I can only imagine what a difference that made. This is my challenge to you this year. Let’s work together to be MAD and make a difference.
As you think about making a difference, and you know this has to be mentioned, reach out to others, sharing the differences ESA has made in your lives. Share the stories about fun times, the things you do and plan to do, and let us grow in our membership. One small spark can light a fire in a new member.
I love and appreciate you all so very much. Thank you again for all that you do to make a difference in the lives of others. You truly are ESA!
A poem from our new president - JillRemember.....
"Just One" One song can spark a moment. One flower can wake the dream. One tree can start a forest. One bird can herald spring. One smile begins a friendship; One handclasp lifts a soul. One star can guide a ship at sea. One word can frame the goal. One vote can change a nation. One sunbeam lights a room; One candle wipes out darkness. One laugh will conquer gloom. One step must start each journey. One word must start each prayer. One hope will raise our spirits; One touch can show you care. One voice can speak with wisdom; One heart can know what's true. One life can make the difference... That difference starts with you. |