Dear Family Member:
As the Christmas season approaches, we are reminded of the excitement of unwrapping gifts under the tree. But the most meaningful gifts—like love, hope, kindness, and gratitude—don’t come in boxes or with ribbons. These gifts transform lives, strengthen relationships, and give us purpose.
At DAP, we see the true spirit of Christmas every day as men unwrap these intangible gifts on their journey to recovery. Gratitude becomes the foundation for rebuilding lives, showing kindness, and serving others. As we reflect on this season of love and giving, we will see how God uses us as His gifts that keeps on giving. We’re reminded of a story that unfolded just last weekend with our nephew– a story of God’s mercy, family love, and a peaceful farewell.
Our nephew, Marc Akin, faced a heart-wrenching challenge: his father was in the hospital, nearing the end of his journey with stage four cancer. The doctor had called, urging Marc to come and make the unbearable decision to remove his father from life support. Struggling with the weight of such a decision, he hesitated, unable to bring himself to be the one to make the final call.
While he wrestled with his emotions, his grandmother (father’s mother), uncle, and his dad’s favorite niece gathered at the hospital to be present in his final moments. The grandmother encouraged the young niece to say her goodbyes, but she was initially reluctant. Finally mustering the courage, the young woman began to speak. She shared how her uncle had inspired her, how his love and guidance had shaped her life. She told him about her accomplishments, like making the honor roll, and spoke of the positive impact he had on their family. Her words were a heartfelt outpouring of gratitude, love, and admiration.
Marc Akin Christmas 2024 A Love That Comforts: A Story of Peace and Grace Her grandmother watched in awe, marveling at the wisdom and love pouring out from her. Moments after his niece finished her tender goodbye, the father took his final breath—peacefully and on his own. No one had to make the agonizing decision. In that sacred moment, God's grace was evident.
This is the kind of God we serve—a God who sees the burdens too heavy for us to bear and provides a way through. Just as He provided a ram for Abraham, He offered peace to this family. Through the loving words of a cherished niece, a man departed this life surrounded by love and gratitude, knowing his work was done.
As we celebrate this season of giving and joy, let us remember the power of love to heal, to comfort, and to bring peace—even in the most difficult times. This story reminds us to cherish our loved ones and to trust in the goodness and mercy of God, who always provides.
Gratitude: Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. The more we practice gratitude, the more
Kindness: When we speak with love, we bring healing to the listener. When we listen with love, we offer healing to the speaker. With loving intentions, God uses us as a sacred space for others to feel safe and valued. By placing love in our hearts before every action, we create a ripple of healing and kindness for everyone who encounters us.
Service: “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” MLK
Forgiveness: Let go of past grievances and embrace the healing power of forgiveness. When a deep injury is done to us, we never recover until we forgive.
Gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a call to action. Here’s how you can keep the gift giving:
• Support DAP: Your donation helps more men find hope and healing.
• Volunteer: Join us in bringing light to those in recovery.
• Spread Gratitude: Share this newsletter and inspire others to give.
Gratitude is the spark that lights up the holiday season and the foundation of everything we do at DAP. Thank you for being part of our family and for helping us share this priceless gift with men reclaiming their lives.
May your Christmas be filled with joy, love, and the endless ripple of gratitude.
With heartfelt thanks,
