As the holiday season sneaks up on us, many people at the shelter are reminded of the families they came from and relationships that have been severed over the years. Thanksgiving may bring depressing feelings to some, but for a very special couple this Thanksgiving brings hope, a second chance, and in the future a new family.

Recently I had the pleasure of talking to Victoria Eisler and Sanford "Sandy" Mills about the upcoming holiday. Originally from New York Victoria found herself at the shelter after being abandoned by her boyfriend of eleven years. Sandy, who had grown up in Massachusetts took the hard road and also ended up at the shelter. Sandy has worked in restaurants all his life and was assigned to the kitchen at the shelter, where Victoria also worked. A friendship formed and soon after they became a couple. For only being together for two months, Sandy and Victoria have a love and respect that can't be found in many couples that have been together for years. Part of that respect comes from the struggles and inner demons that they have faced in the past. There is mutual sympathy and empathy that they feel for each other. Without materialistic issues or promises of security, they have formed their relationship on the basis of love, which is what every relationship should begin with.

Besides having Sandy, Victoria feels thankful this year that she's alive. She has been through a lot and hurts for the people who still find themselves in a bad situation. Victoria considers herself to be blessed with a bed, food, and a roof over her head. Everyday gets better for her as she focus's on herself and takes one step at a time. Thanksgiving is her favorite holiday, largely because of the smorgasbord of food but also because of the family atmosphere.

Sandy also puts Victoria at the top of his list for things to be thankful for. He is also very grateful to Sean and this facility for the second chance he got. Sandy loves to cook so his job is very important to him. He is thankful for his health and being clean and sober. He doesn't take advantage of what he has, which is a new start.

This Thanksgiving Victoria and Sandy will be in the kitchen cooking up a turkey feast. They are looking forward to a future with each other. Both hope to start a family down the road and look for work outside the shelter. Sandy is thankful for what he has, but remembers when he was without. His advice to people who haven't started their journey up from the bottom is to, "keep your head up and hang in there, it only gets better." Victoria feels similar and adds, "Life is what you make it." For Victoria and Sandy this Thanksgiving they have made a commitment that they can be truly thankful for. - Sara Cunningham

For more articles like this, visit the Homeless Voice at http://www.homelessvoice.org.

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