“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” ―Edith Lovejoy Pierce
There’s something so magical about the start of a new year. Creativity is running high, emotions are positive, and possibilities seem endless. It’s a time when we dream of the future and forgive ourselves of the past.
In a really unique way, Help-Portrait events are like that. It’s an intersection in time in which a snapshot of a person’s life is captured. For many recipients, the photo is more than their image. It’s the symbol of the start of a new chapter in life.
I had the opportunity to see experience that first hand at our Nashville Help-Portrait event. Each year, we invite individuals and families from a variety of area organizations and nonprofits. Many of these are centers for rehabilitation.
Two years ago I met Michele. She was invited to attend Help-Portrait on her first four-hour leave from the facility. She admitted herself four months prior and weighed 90 pounds. She responded to treatment and showed up at the event healthier, clean and sober. “I never thought my life would go anywhere,” she told me. She said her photo signified “the next chapter of my life.”
She mailed a copy to her mom and 16-year-old son, who had yet to see her transformation.
Take inspiration from the moment. Think of ways you’ll embrace the possibilities of a fresh start this year.
How has Help-Portrait signaled a fresh start for you? Share your story or a story you experienced at Help-Portrait with us. Details are here.
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