A summary of ThanksUSA's monthly 'Around the Table' discussion series
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“I look forward to the day when….” It seems to be a common theme so many of us have adopted over the last year. As we met the milestone of one year in quarantine, our conversation Around the Table was centered on reflection and hope. Hosted by ThanksUSA co-founder Rachel Okun, we shared ways that we continue to ‘look forward’ with optimism and gratitude.
With scholars from around the world and representing each branch of service, we continue to find common themes despite our differences. A longing for connection, a weariness in social barriers, and an internal exhaustion that comes from isolation were just a few of the common themes.
But what truly struck us was the greatest commonality we found: A selfless caring for others.
Of herself and the organization, Rachel expressed, “We are immediately drawn to the caregivers – that second tier of support that make it possible for others to feel alive and to stay alive. And that’s what the original intent of what ThanksUSA was: Making sure that the people who were asked to care, were cared for themselves.”
But when given the opportunity – and the platform – to ask for that care, we were amazed that the messages we heard continued to be focused on caring for others: communities, family members, units, squadrons, platoons, neighborhoods and friends. As an all-volunteer force, it is no surprise that military families have an “others first” attitude. They are the backbone of military strength and ThanksUSA is proud to support them.
And we know you are too. Join us…there’s room for each of you Around the Table.
“I look forward to the day when….” It seems to be a common theme so many of us have adopted over the last year. As we met the milestone of one year in quarantine, our conversation Around the Table was centered on reflection and hope. Hosted by ThanksUSA co-founder Rachel Okun, we shared ways that we continue to ‘look forward’ with optimism and gratitude.
With scholars from around the world and representing each branch of service, we continue to find common themes despite our differences. A longing for connection, a weariness in social barriers, and an internal exhaustion that comes from isolation were just a few of the common themes.
But what truly struck us was the greatest commonality we found: A selfless caring for others.
Of herself and the organization, Rachel expressed, “We are immediately drawn to the caregivers – that second tier of support that make it possible for others to feel alive and to stay alive. And that’s what the original intent of what ThanksUSA was: Making sure that the people who were asked to care, were cared for themselves.”
But when given the opportunity – and the platform – to ask for that care, we were amazed that the messages we heard continued to be focused on caring for others: communities, family members, units, squadrons, platoons, neighborhoods and friends. As an all-volunteer force, it is no surprise that military families have an “others first” attitude. They are the backbone of military strength and ThanksUSA is proud to support them.
And we know you are too. Join us…there’s room for each of you Around the Table.
