President’s Corner: “It is in Giving that we Receive”

Dear families and friends,

I hope you had a most meaningful, safe, and enjoyable THANKSGIVING with family and friends!

May I share some thoughts on gratitude and family as we continue to proceed into the holiday season?

Have you ever wondered why every human being is longing for family, friends, a happy home, children's voices and parent's loving eyes watching them grow—why is this desire deeply engraved in us all, and where is it coming from?

I dare say that this deep, almost irresistible longing for belonging comes from no one other than our loving Creator, the Parent of all humankind, who instituted the one and only institution common to all humanity: the Family—husband, wife, children, and grandchildren. And I believe our dear God also wanted to be included in all our family relationships and to pour His selfless love through each family member to all.

Yes, we might be currently far from experiencing this kind of love in our family. However, let us use this holiday season not only as a time of festivity but of reflection, going on the inside and listening to the inner voice of our hearts. Let us change our paradigm by finding the strength and desire to love and give first to others, instead of receiving. As Saint Francis said, "It is in Giving that we Receive."

May this continued season of Thanksgiving, which folds naturally into Christmastime, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, inspire and propel us to be the ones to give first with all our hearts, and to lift up the spirits of those around us. And by doing so, by being the first to reach out, the first to give, the first to love and also to forgive, in partnership with God, we will surely, even without any extra effort, create more harmony and joy around us.

The great power of change for peace and harmony lies within each of us. As Gandhi said, "Be the Change." This in the end will be the only path to replace any kind of animosity, fear, violence, and isolation we might feel.

WFWP USA will continue to inspire women as the key for positive change to be(come) carriers of the Leadership of the Heart so we finally will see a different culture around us!

Have a wonderful last month of this eventful year 2022!

Angelika