As the cold winter winds whistle around the JKRC and the patio furniture slumbers peacefully beneath its canvas covering, I think I can safely say that many minds and memories muse on warmer weather when the earth is green and giving rather than gray and ghostly. Does anyone remember last August fifth? Does anyone remember the 130 people who congregated at the JKRC from as far away as the Carolinas for the mother of all family days? Yes, gentle readers, we remember. We remember a day that, like the ghost of Hamlet’s father, bid us, “Adieu, adieu, remember me.” And to this memory we answer, “I'll wipe away all trivial fond records, All saws of books, all forms, all pressures past that youth and observation copied there, and this Family Day all alone shall live within the book and volume of my brain, unmixed with baser matter.”
It all comes back to me now like scent on a soft breeze. The JKRC manager Don Potenski began the scheduled activities of Family Day with welcoming remarks. His opening comments had all the students and family members present pause. “Yes, we are here, we are not there,” Don uttered cryptically like a zen master giving his students a koan. Everyone listened, each straining his or her attention to get the meaning of the words, which seemed both obvious and yet intimated some subtler truth. Don repeated, “It’s true we are here, we are not there!” Don continued, “We are here, right now, at the JKRC. You are here because of someone you care about. Stop. Listen. Enjoy and be glad with the day we have here right now.” A smile seemed to spread over the faces of listeners as cryptic remarks became transparent, and the utter simplicity of the present moment—in all its diamond clarity—was seen for what it is: all that truly matters. “Forget about your bills,” Don spoke. “Ignore thinking about the traffic on the way home. Don’t worry about what you will make for supper. Stop. Relax. This is your moment to be fully aware of the place, the program and the people here at the rehab center. Nothing else has more importance. From the bottom of my heart—Welcome! Welcome! Welcome to the JKRC!” With these words strangers looked at one another with new eyes and together began their journey into the present moment and an unforgettable day.
It was a day of sunshine, good food and warm feelings for all. But most importantly the families of students left with a greater understanding of, and feeling for, what the JKRC is all about. It is a place dedicated to caring, and in some sense the students, staff and family are all one big family united for the purpose of helping people believe in themselves and accomplish all that it is in their hearts to accomplish. So when we find ourselves stuck in the cold and dark of winter, let us remember the warmth of barbeque chicken and the summer sun, as well as the light we can pass along to others through our work. If winter comes can spring be far behind?
The time has come once again to spread holiday cheer at J.K.R.C.. Everyone was so excited about coming together for the big Christmas celebration and what a success is was! The past students came back to join the occasion and in doing so the present students were privileged to finally meet the alumni. The day started with a holiday lunch then proceeded into the entertainment, which was outstanding. Many of the students exercised their talents singing, dancing, reciting poems etc. Everyone did exceptionally well, Jessica sang “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” which was hilarious. Michael H. recited “’Twas The Night Before Christmas” to set atmosphere. The highlight of the evening was past student Demetrius and I singing until the end. The day officially ended at 4 o’clock, but everyone stayed around laughing and having a good time. The day was a complete success, and we are definitely looking forward to next year.
Picture: Don Potenski unveils the new JKRC T-shirts to Santa's Elves
