Beyond The Shadow: Creating the Life We Imagine
One month before committing to Woodhaven Recovery, I sat down and jotted down a vision for my future, even though retirement was still three years away. I sketched out five thought bubbles, each representing a dream I hoped to turn into reality. While one was to write a book (something that hasn’t happened yet), the other four have become fundamental to what we have built at Woodhaven.
As we prepare for the grand opening of our New Hope Lane Campus on October 8 and the launch of our full programs and continuum of care, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities we’ve created—not just for ourselves, but for the kids and families we will serve.
I shared this vision recently in a parent support group I participate in, and it sparked a lively discussion about how we can all envision our futures and actively work to create them. This conversation brought to mind Abraham Lincoln’s quote: "The best way to predict your future is to create it." It’s a powerful reminder that our future is not just something that happens to us but something we can shape through our actions and decisions. By writing down our dreams and committing to them, we take the first step toward making them a reality. This is precisely what we’re doing with Woodhaven—creating a future grounded in purpose, support, and healing.
Vision for the Future
In five years, I envision a future that is fulfilling, meaningful, and balanced—a life where the chaos has subsided, but the sense of purpose remains strong. I will have retired from my position as Assistant Superintendent, and the transition will allow me to fully immerse myself in work that I truly love. My husband and I will live between Pennsylvania and wherever life takes us, but much of it will be dedicated to the program we have helped to create. My days will be filled with helping the boys on their recovery journey, teaching them lessons not just about academics but about life, resilience, and growth. I will support them in my own way, guiding them through tough times, offering comfort, hope, and home-cooked meals when things feel overwhelming. I will also work closely with their families, helping them navigate their own emotional landscapes, offering strength, and being a voice of reassurance.
My husband will continue to manage the business side of our program, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently. His dedication will allow us to focus on the heart of our work, free from logistical pressures, and ensure the program’s long-term success.
Our son, with his advanced degree in social work, will be thriving as a social worker in the local community. Whether or not he’s working directly at Woodhaven, he will remain deeply involved—volunteering or working regularly and staying closely connected to the program. Seeing him grow into his career, grounded and passionate about helping others, will fill me with pride.
Our daughter, ever the adventurer, will be out in the world, living with confidence and joy. Whether settled in one place or traveling, she will have become a confident young adult with a bold, adventurous spirit. We will take extended trips to visit her, exploring new places and enjoying time together, knowing she’s built a life that brings her meaning and happiness.
The pace of life will have shifted. I will no longer wake long before sunrise; instead, I will savor the beauty of each morning, watching the sky change as the day begins. Life will still be busy, but it will be the kind of busy that feels right—busy with purpose, love, and moments of calm in between. I will cherish this phase, knowing that both my son and daughter are flourishing, each in their own way, as we continue to nurture the community we’ve built and find time to enjoy the small but meaningful moments in life.
As we stand on the edge of this new chapter with the opening of our New Hope Lane Campus, we’re reminded that this future isn’t something that just happened—it’s something we’ve actively created. Each decision, each moment of planning and preparation, has brought us to where we are today. As we welcome our first residents, we’re excited to see these dreams become reality.
Reflecting on our journey and the future we’ve built, it’s clear that our lives are shaped by our choices and efforts. Each of us has the power to create a future that aligns with our values and vision. Take a moment to envision what you want your future to look like and then take purposeful steps to bring that vision to life. Don’t wait for life to unfold on its own; embrace life and actively shape the future you desire.
