The image and words above were incorporated into our Spring Workshop; TR: Rising to the Challenge. Interestingly, I first heard them spoken at an Omega Conference I attended earlier in April. A friend of mine was turning 60 and for her birthday she wanted to attend this conference with some of her friends. It
has been a long time since I had been to a conference not specifically geared toward therapeutic recreation. What a treat to bask in the experience simply because. |

Besides listening to awe inspiring presenters such as Jane Goodall and resilient presenters such as Al Gore, I was struck by the notion of receiving infomation for my own personal growth not necessarily for my professional growth. Although I do believe that my life experience contributes to my success as a practitioner on a daily basis.

The quote above really struck a cord with me on many different levels especially in relationship to our field and profession. As we get closer to National Therapeutic Recreation Week (July 9th through the 15th) I hope that individually and collectively we will take a risk to blossom. If it is possible to find a way to celebrate yourself and the wonderful work that you do while at the same time informing others of that work, go for it! Take yourself to lunch and invite co- workers. Have a party for yourself and invite your clients, patients or particpants.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we wish to recognize the work that you do as students and practitioners and we thank you.