The Power of Gratitude

By Jim Wambach | November 22, 2018

Perspectives article by Jim Wambach, Executive Director

“In ordinary life, we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.” ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Dear Friends,

This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of worshipping with our friends at First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley. It was a wonderful opportunity to visit with so many of our faithful volunteers and supporters.

As I listened to Pastor Steve Schibsted’s sermon on gratitude, and Luke’s story of The Ten Lepers, I was especially moved. When just one of the men who was healed came back to give thanks, it reminded me that expressing gratitude does not always come naturally to us. Having a posture of gratitude – not just at Thanksgiving, or before meals, or when something really good happens in life – but living a life of gratitude, is maybe the key to experiencing the abundant life God wants for us.

I want to take a moment to express to you my gratitude on this Thanksgiving. I feel blessed with the opportunity to be part of this great organization. And that gratitude runs so very deeply.

For our children and the community that we serve…

For our wonderful volunteers and their spirit of service…

For our supporters and their spirit of generosity…

For our staff and board, who care so deeply for the children…

Your generosity does not go unnoticed.

I am constantly reminded about the very special spirit of community and love surrounding us every time we welcome a new volunteer or receive a donation. The countless gifts given and the critical work you and others are doing to support Oakland’s most vulnerable children is what makes what we do here at Children Rising so extraordinary.

At Children Rising, our goal is to make sure that no child slips through the cracks. You have made it possible for hundreds of children to receive one-to-one interventional tutoring, for thousands of families to eat on the weekends, and for many, many high school students to have the opportunity for success in life.

Thank you! You have made a real difference in the lives of the kids we serve. For that I am grateful.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving.

For the children,

Jim