By: Jan Cetwinski, OTA/L
I have been thinking about the upcoming International Friendship Day on July 30 and considering what it means to be and have a true friend.
I took time to really look into myself and wondered if there was anything that would make me stop being friends with someone. With the latest news on the many shootings, Supreme Court rulings, LGBTQ+ rights, and international violence, I have thought about how each of these events impacts me and my thoughts of friendship.
I will continue to be there for anyone who needs a friend by respecting each person’s right to be who they are. I will listen, console, and believe in them.
How about you? If your friend came to you and told you something intensely personal about themselves, are you the type of friend that will be supportive fully, partially, or not at all? On this International Day of Friendship, please take the time to really look into your heart and choose to be a supportive friend. It can make a very deep impact on their lives and yours.
“I will continue to be there for anyone who needs a friend by respecting each person’s right to be who they are. I will listen, console, and believe in them.”
About the Author
Jan Cetwinski, OTA/L
Therapy Program Manager and Encore Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Councilmember
Jan became a COTA in 1996 and has spent the majority of her career with the geriatric population. Pediatrics and Geriatrics have been a passion of hers throughout her career. Jan has had the opportunity to work with students from two different colleges and finds this rewarding as well. Seventeen years of her career in LTC have been in a supervisory role as a Therapy Program Manager. Jan applied for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Council this year and hopes to continue growth and understanding and to help educate others about the importance of embracing our rights to be who we are and to increase the acceptance of all people.
