A Helping Hand Along the Way…

Karen and Jay share thoughts on the importance of recognizing and being thankful for all those who have helped each and every one of us along the way.

If you are fortunate enough to have had some successes in your life, the truth is that there were probably some critical moments along the way when it seemed like it would not all work out. When things were on the verge of falling apart. And, in some of those moments, I suspect, there was some angelic person who gave you a helping hand. Who believed in you. Gave you courage. Perhaps financial support or helped in some other special way. And, you know ‘deep down,’ that you would not be where you are today had it not been for that person’s selfless act of support. We have all had moments like this, and we have all had people who have stepped in to be our guardian angel. And because of this, we need to be properly grateful. It’s important to give recognition and thanks. Although most such ‘angels’ are not really looking for thanks. Nonetheless, our own feeling of gratitude is supremely important, and perhaps the most impactful way for us to show our thanks is to pass the favor forward. To use our time, our resources and our positive spirit to selflessly help someone else in their most critical moment of need. When we reflect on these moments of quiet heroism, we often realize how a single gesture can ripple through an entire lifetime. A word of encouragement when we were ready to give up. An introduction to someone who would open a door. A small loan that bridged an impossible gap. These are the seemingly modest acts that have the power to change a destiny. And in the grand mosaic of our experience, these gestures shine brighter than any personal achievement because they remind us that no one truly succeeds alone. Just as we were lifted up when we needed it most, there will come a time when someone else will look to us in their hour of uncertainty. Perhaps they won’t even ask directly. Maybe we will simply sense their quiet struggle or recognize in their eyes the fear of falling short. In those moments, we have a sacred opportunity to step forward, to be the reassuring voice or the outstretched hand. Our willingness to act can make the difference between someone giving up or finding the strength to carry on. And so, it becomes a kind of beautiful cycle—receiving help, offering help, and inspiring others to do the same. It is how communities are built, how families stay strong, and how each of us honors the unseen angels who once guided us. When we choose to pass along the grace we were shown, we affirm that kindness is never wasted. It echoes on, long after the moment has passed, shaping the world in ways we may never fully see.

This week we are delighted to highlight a leader in the community – who shows gratitude by helping others, Joe Ehrmann. Joe Ehrmann knows that true strength isn’t measured in trophies or yards gained - it’s measured in how you lift others up. Once an NFL defensive lineman for the Baltimore Colts, Joe found his greatest calling off the field as a coach, minister, and speaker who believes sports can transform lives when rooted in love, integrity, and service. His "Building Men and Women for Others" philosophy has reached thousands across the country. It teaches that greatness is about service, not ego. Through his "Building Men and Women for Others" work, Joe has spent decades teaching young athletes that character matters more than stats. His workshops help coaches guide kids to become responsible citizens first, champions second. He speaks at schools, sports camps, and community events to spread this message. Joe believes sports are a classroom for life lessons. His commitment is a reminder that mentorship matters. Joe’s story isn’t just about locker rooms and playbooks. As a pastor, he’s helped lead community youth programs and mentored countless young people who needed someone to believe in them. He stands by kids in their hardest moments, helping them find purpose and hope. His spiritual side guides everything he does. He teaches that faith and compassion can change lives. His influence reaches from school gyms to corporate boardrooms, as his message - that we become our best selves by serving others - resonates far beyond sports. Companies invite him to teach leadership based on empathy and integrity. Communities invite him to share how teams can heal divisions. Joe’s reach is wide, but his heart stays close to the young people he serves. He shows what it means to give your best for others. That’s a lesson we can all apply. At a time when so many young people need guidance and positive role models, Joe Ehrmann reminds us that one person’s willingness to care can ripple through entire communities. His life shows that a coach’s greatest victory is who his players become off the field. His legacy will live on in the leaders he shapes.

Quote of the Week

"No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude." — Alfred North Whitehead

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