I think it is really important to say out loud to people the good things you see and appreciate in them.
For the children at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, it is a critical part of their healing. It is called being "Strength-Based." Because most of our kids have not been told they are good at anything, teaching them to see the positives in themselves is so very important.
I still think about the boy in our school who I asked, "What is the most important things you've learned here?" He answered very quickly, "That I am pretty smart." I agreed. He didn't know that before the Ranch, but teachers, youth care workers, therapists, told him he had deep intelligence... and he began to see it and believe it himself.
It doesn't just go for the Ranch kids though. We need to recognize and say it out loud when we see the good in our coworkers, friends, family. Heavens, my husband and I have been married for almost 40 years and I still need to tell him that I see his hard work, kind heart, sense of humor.
And we really need to tell you, our Ranch friends, the truth about you. Quite simply, you are a blessing. One of the special Ranch friends I correspond with ends her notes with, "Blessed to be a blessing." What a great world view, to know that you are in a position to be both blessed and to bless others.
Ranch Chaplain, Rick Jones wrote in one of his daily devotions a message that caused me to think of you and all your fellow Ranch friends... "He has created you with unique skills and talents. And God has placed you in other people's lives to be a blessing to them. When you use your gifts for the benefit of others, you are fulfilling that blessing. And when others are using their gifts to benefit you, they are a blessing to you. No matter what you do this year, I hope you are able to see the places where you are a blessing to others. I also hope you can take pride in these instances and be joyful because of them. No matter what role you are fulfilling, thank you for being a blessing."
From each of us here at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, we want you to know what we see in you. Thank you for being a blessing.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
P.S. If you are a Thrivent member, March 31, 2021 is the deadline for directing your Thrivent Choice Dollars® to charity. Please consider directing all or a portion of your dollars to Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch. We use all Thrivent Choice® funds to introduce our kids to Christ and walk with them as they grow their faith.
Easter is a special time at the Ranch, where our children have the opportunity to learn about the great love that Christ has for them. Share a sweet, funny, inspirational, or encouraging note with a child at the Ranch this Easter🐰🐤
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