by Camille Frink
As fall approaches and the leaves begin to change color, it is a reminder of the potential for change in us all. Everyday at Central OAC, we see examples of our guests taking steps to turn over a new leaf in their lives–-interviewing for a new job, trying to re-establish relationships with family, entering recovery programs, seeking a
fresh start after incarceration. Many of the people who walk through our doors have parts of their past that have created challenges for them, but so many of our guests are doing everything they can, despite what may be in their past, despite the barriers they may face, to move forward and start anew.
One of my favorite fun facts about nature is that the change in color of leaves in the fall is due to a decreased production of chlorophyll, the green pigment fading away to reveal other pigments in the leaf. Many scientists refer to the bright oranges, reds, and yellows that remain as the leaf’s “true color.”
At the OAC, we regularly witness our guest’s “true colors”–hope, determination, forgiveness, as they try their best, despite so many obstacles, to start fresh and move forward in their lives. Recently, I have worked with two guests who are father and son. The father, Mr. F, is facing many physical health challenges, and his son, Mr. J, looks out for him, keeping track of his health and asking for help for him when needed. I have never seen one of them without the other being nearby, and it is clear how much they rely on each other. While I don’t know what events in their past led them to their current circumstances, the love and care they have for each other is apparent.
Every day, I am reminded that though our circumstances are very different, each person in the OAC–staff, volunteers, interns, and guests–all share a commonality. We are all of us, despite our circumstances and our pasts, human beings who ultimately, at our core, want and hope for a safe, fulfilling life, for a future filled with possibility. These are our true colors.