November invites us to pause and appreciate the small joys in our lives—the changing leaves, the warmth of shared meals, and the connections we forge. It’s also a month associated with gratitude and reflection.
I took time recently to reflect upon what I’m thankful for, and came to the conclusion that I have much more to be thankful for than I realized. I appreciate our LGBTQ community that enhances our lives and fosters a sense of belonging. I’m grateful for our partnerships, whose support and collaboration play a crucial role in OutClique’s success. And, I’m thankful for our dedicated team whose hard work, creativity, commitment, unique skills, and perspectives enrich our content and strengthen our community.
Several members of the team also shared what they appreciate in their lives. Will White, Senior Associate Editor, said, “I’m thankful for the companionship of my 3 dogs that are always by my side.” Chandler Scott, Social Media Director, added, “I’m grateful for the fall season, the changing leaves, and the cool weather.” Charles Baran, OCQ Ambassador and writer, shared, “What I am most thankful for are my friends and family. As I get older, we grow closer. And for that I am truly thankful.” Sach Chokami, Director of Graphic Design, expressed, “I am always grateful for having excellent friends around me who are like family. Most importantly, I am thankful for being raised to be resilient in life and to never give up. My father often said, ‘Enjoy life as best as possible without hurting yourself or others, and never give up when facing obstacles along the way.’”
We hope you’ll take time this November to think about what you’re most thankful for. You’ll find that gratitude helps to lift your spirits, focus on the positive aspects of life, and strengthen relationships.
May happiness be abounding. ¹
Warm wishes,
Dr. Steven O. Evans²
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
¹ Easterday-Holder, A. DMA (former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University and choir member Immanuel Baptist Church, Lexington, KY). (www.ibclex.org)
² McEldowney Jensen, PhD.,J. Director of Graduate Studies, Educational Policy Studies & Education. University of Kentucky, College of Education. (Doctoral supervisor) Dissertation title: Pediatrics education in an AHEC setting: Preparing students to provide patient centered medicine. A research study of ways that medical students learn patient centered medicine through their rotations in AHEC clinical settings.
