Posted by Becky Johnson Rescola on November 25, 2025
“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” – John F. Kennedy
It’s that time of year when we count our blessings, inventory the many good things in our lives, and pause to be thankful for all the goodness that surrounds us. Sometimes, it’s a little too easy to focus on the negative, especially in a world that seems to have forgotten what it means to show a bit of kindness, grace, and respect to everyone around us – no matter how they might look, what they might believe, or where they call home. And while I’d like to believe the approaching holiday season brings out the best in us, I’m afraid in our rushed and expectant culture the opposite can be true (ever been shopping on Black Friday?). The marketers tell us it’s a season of thanksgiving and joy, but sometimes nothing feels further from the truth.
That’s why I think it’s vital for each one of us to pause and take a moment to embrace gratitude and joy in the midst of it all. When we lead with kindness and a spirit of gratitude, we are bringing something into this world that transcends and transforms the rush, the division, even the anger. One act of kindness can spark an entire reaction and suddenly, we have ignited a lot of goodness in the world.
I’d like to take a moment to thank each of you. Many of you I know by name; some of you I’ve yet to meet. And – I’m still grateful for each and every one of you. You are part of this community and its extraordinary mission. You show up every day to make a difference in the lives of children, teens, and young adults who are facing daunting challenges. Some of you are those brave warriors yourselves – and the fact that you show up every day, in spite of those challenges, inspires the rest of us.
YOU are putting goodness back into this world. Your dedication, your kindness, your commitment to constantly improving the lives of others – it is exactly the kind of bright energy we need this holiday season and throughout the year. This work isn’t easy and for those of you managing IBD, it’s often a daily struggle. Yet you continue to find that spark that fills the darkness.
As we approach Thanksgiving and this holiday season, please know I am so grateful for this community. I am grateful for the role YOU play in the work we are doing together. I am grateful for your expertise, insights, lived experiences, challenge to the status quo, and constant quest for something better. I’m grateful for your tireless dedication to ImproveCareNow. And this year I am so, so grateful for the opportunity to become part of this community.
I invite you to also pause and take a moment to thank the people who are making a difference in your life this holiday season. Because in the end, it is not the holiday food, or decorations, or gifts – it’s the people around us who matter most. Take a moment to tell them. And please know that I am always, always grateful for you and your impact in this world. It needs you now more than ever.
Wishing you a healthy and joy-filled holiday season 💚💙
Becky Johnson Rescola, MSW