"Taylor has been a wonderful friend to me and a shoulder to lean on as I deal with some heavy challenges in my life. I so appreciate her listening without judgement, looking out for me, and helping me feel confident that I'll land on my feet regardless the outcome."

"She is raising two beautiful children, one beautiful husband, a warren of rabbits, several ducks and a large vegetable garden. And doing it with joy. She birthed her daughter at home with no midwife. She is my hero."

"Cheryl was the founder of Livingston Street Early Childhood Community in Kingston, a play-based, non-profit school for young children with a focus on their emotional and social well-being. After over a decade of working tirelessly at this program, Cheryl handed the reins over to a successor so she could launch the Adventure Boat Club to teach people young and old how to sail while learning about the ecology and history of our historic Hudson River."

"Marta has been a dear friend and incredible support not just to me, but other moms experiencing matrescence (the process of becoming a mother) in our community of friends. I gave birth to my daughter earlier this year, and while motherhood has filled me with indescribable awe and joy, it has also been a challenging time. Many times in my postpartum life, she would drop by with warm meals, an understanding ear, and tireless encouragement. She never got tired of inviting me on walks or events so I wouldn’t feel isolated, even when I had to decline on multiple occasions due to postpartum anxiety, my baby’s unpredictable schedule, and simple exhaustion. I’m thankful for her friendship and generous heart, during a time I longed to be seen, heard, and received. Thank you Marta!"

"Molly & Hank are lovely friends and show up in such delightful ways. When we spend time together, they are so present and vibrantly there. They have both helped me grow as an artist and a person through our many delightful conversations. And they're just fun people! It is such a treat to have an uncomplicatedly good friendship."

"Maya is a sweet friend for 23 years now. Although we live far apart, she is always there. We've talked almost every day for a decade, and now that she has a new baby and teenagers she's still makes time for our friendship."

"Libby fights for justice at every level, from climate change down to the individual interaction, and she does so with compassion, humor, and hope. She's someone I admired for decades before having the honor of working with her. I learn more from listening to her silences than from many people's speech."

"She's about to be a first-time mom and possibly the greatest person I know. We met in college and she's been part of every fun, memorable, life-changing moment of my life. I just think she's the best and want to remind her that she's an incredible human who is about to make an incredible mom."

"April lives to help others while striving to better herself everyday. She was diagnosed with cancer during covid, navigated treatments, new york apartment isolation and job insecurity by herself and never once was without grace. When we were roommates we used to gift each other candles and I would like to think it symbolized the warmth and the sense of peace we wanted for the other. I wish nothing more for her now to have a renewed sense of warmth and peace after the seismic metamorphosis she just experienced."

"She is deeply thoughtful, always making time for loved ones, through acts of service and gifts. She is always willing to listen and she is always there for those she loves. Like she loves to hang up little bird feeders, to provide food for beautiful birds, she is always cooking for us. It’s her love language."

"Catie is my soon-to-be three-year-old son's nanny (of almost two years) and truly a remarkable human being. My toddler son, Zeke, is what we call 'spirited,' and yet Catie pulls from a well of patience, creativity, and joy every day to nurture that spirit. She builds his mental and physical confidence and is adored by other children, parents, and caregivers in our neighborhood for her zest for life and positive vibes. Thanks to her, I can go finish my PhD and do my teaching knowing she's so lovingly taking care of my (sometimes) 'good mood dude' as she calls him. Did I mention she's in grad school herself?"

"Musicians and teachers feed our spirit. At root what they offer is love. It is an invaluable and yet poorly compensated endeavor."

"They grow beautiful, delicious, and healthy organic food for our community. They raise laying hens for eggs and also sell pasture raised meats: chicken, beef and pork. They work tirelessly, and with very thin margins (as most farmers do). They ensure that their food is accessible by others in our rural community: they have a sliding scale CSA payment option that ensure no one is turned away from participating in this network due to lack of funds."

"Besides being excellent at her job (and at this workplace for 30 years), Natasha, originally from Jamaica, defines "

"Misti is one of the funniest, smartest, compassionate, and selfless people I know. She always there to support me and over our time together, I have seen how she has even made me a more compassionate and giving person. Even when Misti is going through difficult or stressful times in her life, she is willing to offer a hand or support to make life for others easier. At work, she keeps everyone at our company organized and informed and has helped grow the awareness of our leadership team. She is also the biggest Peewee Herman fan I have ever known, tells the best jokes, drives like a maniac... and I love her for it."

"Alison recently began offering classes on mindful communication at my synagogue, which I've had the privilege of participating in. She is a joyful presence and an excellent teacher. Attending her classes consistently leaves me feeling more myself than I did walking in, more knowledgeable about mindfulness, and more prepared to connect with others. I appreciate so many things about her: the kindness, wisdom, and intentionality she brings to interaction, her commitment to giving students regular stretch breaks, her extraordinary collection of stickers, etc. Most of all, I appreciate her dedication to the mitzvah of "

"Dorothy leads the fundraising committee at church & does an inordinate amount of work preparing for the activities. She works long long for days on end while maintaining a gentle and kind composure."

"She works as a nurse in palliative care and is a very loving friend."

"We have been friends for decades. We have seen each other through the joys and the sadnesses of life. I have just lost my dad. She is there for me 24/7 as I work through my raw grief. We live across the country from one another, but I feel her hugs and love."

"I appreciate Gabrielle because she puts thought into everything she does. Whether it's a birthday text message, a speech at a wedding or just a quick meet up for coffee, Gabrielle's actions and words are always the most thoughtful - making those around her feel special and heard."

"I am really proud of Rachel because she is doing a lot to take care of herself, her family, her friends, all while having a new baby, new job and moving to a new town! It's been a really hard time for our community too and she is doing a great job juggling it all during massive heartbreak and distress."

"Nora is extremely smart, hard-working, funny, and has put up with all of my nonsense (and supported me in my pursuits and struggles) since we were seven years old."

"She’s just really tough, yet very gentle for her generation. She has a a surprising amount of open mindedness which I don’t appreciate nearly enough"

"Because she takes care of the people in her life."

"Although all moms deserve appreciation, I think mine is special because she doesn't just care for me but everyone around her. She has been a Philadelphia school teacher her whole life and in the past 5 years has taken on the responsibility of caring for my now 96 year old grandmom. This haiku is inspired from her tough love in the classroom and out."

"I have greatly under-appreciated my mother, and we used to have conflict over trivial things like outfits and lunch, but since moving hours away, I miss her a lot and wish we could see one another more often. In some ways, being farther is better, because we only talk and see one another when we’re in a good mood, but I also know that is not true to the ups and downs of life."

"As now a mother of my own three kids, I find myself reflecting back on my own childhood. My mom gave herself fully to her role as a mother, to her own four children, but also to my friends and our community. And later in life, to her own father. The role of a mother and parent is relentless. It's a mental, emotional and physical odyssey that rarely feels tangibly reassuring that you are on track. It forces you to do the inner work that you'd rather just numb up and package nicely away. I look back and see a vulnerability in my mom's unconditional love that I never fully appreciated (or noticed) until now as I try to quiet the noise of parenting advice and tune into my own voice. Her instincts weren't always right but they were genuine and fully committed. And they still are. Love you mom."

"Eleven years ago I married the boy who lived a mile down the road from me, when we were growing up. Two weeks ago, he held my hands as I surrendered to the body wracking waves of contractions pulling our newest baby into this world. This is not our first birth, but it’s the first birth where I could feel how the years have knitted us together and my pain and joy were written on his face. I am grateful for all the seasons that have shaped us, because through them, he has become my closest friend."

"My daughter is a bold, beautiful, strong young woman with a generous heart who has risen above challenge and adversity with grace and resolve. I respect and admire her tremendously. My nickname for her, since she was born, is Emikat."

"She is such a loving, caring positive life force to all she encounters."

"She is such a light in our lives and those around her. She lifts people up and makes them laugh. She has had some struggles going through high school during COVID and after which she has worked so hard to get through while still being positive and having fun"

"Sven is so kind and loving."

"He’s the most selfless person I know, he does everything for everyone else and never excepts anything in return."

"She’s a beautiful soul inside and out."

"I help others quite a bit, but it is rarely seen because I do not talk about it."

"Linda Mom is so deeply giving to her family, community, dog, and clients. She brought me up with a Spiritual Warrior curriculum, and nightly foot massages."

"Harry is the embodiment of altruism. He’s always thinking about how to do good for his loved ones, his neighbors, his broader community, and the environment. He takes our compost to the park every weekend, delivers food to the local community fridges for those in need, seeks out volunteer opportunities in North Brooklyn, donates books and clothes to the community, and even frequents our local public libraries which are essential to a thriving and equitable community. It’s very rare to know someone that devotes so much energy and time to being a good neighbor, and I so appreciate his work."

"Becoming a parent together has been such an incredibly rewarding but also, let’s be honest, exhausting and difficult time over the last 3.5 years. It’s not always easy to show my appreciation for him but I really appreciate so many of the small things he does for our family every day that maintain my sanity."

"Gabby is a one of a kind girlfriend, partner, and friend. Every day she approaches life with a sense of giving and compassion that makes you feel loved and supported in everything you do. On top of this, Gabby works as an occupational therapist at two K-8 schools in the Bronx. Helping kids learn and develop solutions to OT challenges, Gabby creates a safe and caring space for kids from all different backgrounds to grow and feel supported in their educational journey!"

"She is my guiding light"

"The thoughtful ways he shows he cares"

"She has been dealing with my father who passed out and had a mental breakdown these past two weeks, while I am in Germany without a passport to return home."

"Wendy and I have not lived in the same country for many years and yet she is always finding ways to keep in touch and meet up when possible despite her busy family and professional life. If she judges me, she doesn't show it. Whenever we speak, she always provides compassionate and supportive words. I know she will always be there for me and I for her. love her to death."

"Alex is a caring dog father and has been there for me during my darkest moments and has been a solid partner to me for the past 8 years we've been romantic and 12 years as a friend. He always will do small acts of kindness to let me know that I am deeply loved and appreciated. He will start my car in the morning while I make us both lattes. Alex will also take out our dog Samson for a early walk even when its really cold/dark out. He's the best and I feel so lucky everyday waking up to both of them."

"For not having a TV when we were kids, for dance parties to Stop Making Sense, for thousands of hours of card games and reading us Grimm's fairy tales."

"Generously bakes homemade bread for us!"

"Kirsten works endlessly to support her family and always stays true to her principles at work and home. She fights hard for what is right."

"She is selfless beyond words. She spends so much of her time investing in others - her family, her community, her friends."

"He does so much for our two little girls. They are lucky to have a patient, playful, energetic dad who is always ready to play cars or peekaboo."

"He is constantly actively working to support people of color, women, and neurodivergent people and calls out injustice where he sees it."

"My wife Yemi does so much for our twin toddlers. She never ceases to amaze me with her selflessness and tireless effort to take care of them. Yemi has put them ahead of her career, which has enabled me to advance my own career in order to provide for our family. Knowing how much my wife's career means to her and how talented she is, I am eternally grateful for her sacrifice, and want to show her how much I appreciate her."

"She is always there for everyone. Invites loners and strangers to family dinners, did the lion’s share of care for my dad in the month’s before he died, volunteers at the zoo, does way more work on my brother’s ranch than he does, and is an all-around under-appreciated force for good in the family and community."

"They bring me joy and make me laugh whenever I talk to them pretty much"

"I appreciate him for putting up with me when I’m at my worst and for taking such exceptional care of our cats."

"She is always an optimist. Loves supporting others. Selfless and kind. Quick to point out the good in people!"

"Ecy and I are lucky enough to have met because we married brothers. She is like the sister I never had."

"For being kind, thoughtful, and caring."

"He is incredibly selfless with his time and care when I'm at my worst :)"

"I appreciate this person for their unwavering support and patience. He is a incredible partner who overcome many hurdles to for me and our relationship. I want him to know how much I appreciate him."

"Generous and caring; calms me down"

"Curry has supported me through a significant health scare and potential job change, and deserves some extra love and gratitude!"

"Her creative energy"

"She always helps me and I'm thankful"

"They are selfless and caring in the most genuine sense"

"He is my husband and now importantly, baby daddy. He is the most devoted, loving, selfless, and committed person to his family. He gives all of himself to our son and me (and our pup). He works so hard and gives so much, and always has a smile on his face. He is everything to our family, and should feel as special and appreciated as he is."

"Loyal, attentive, loving!"

"They are my partner, best friend and family. I adore their efforts and caring nature as I have been going though treatment for OCD among other health concerns. He keeps me motivated and reminds me to have grace for myself and pride for my progress. I’m thankful to have someone to love me in all the ways I am while sticking by my side. Clay is truly a unique and wonderful person."

"He’s the sweetest and always cares for me so well"

"She’s a great mom and watching my dog while I travel!"

"She is nice and teaches me things each day."

"My beautiful wife, she is a selfless healer and a wonderful mother to our son"

"She is a medical doctor, but more important, she is a caring human being. She goes over and above giving help and support to her patients and her family."

"She is a very knowledgeable Physical Therapist. She works with special needs children in a local school system to increase their independence and safety with mobility."

"Caitlin is always there to listen and lend a hand, even if she lives across the nation."

"Her loyal friendship, courage and kindness"

"My partner of 3 years, he embodies kindness and curiosity and creates a space of belonging for everyone he’s around. It’s magic to see someone live in the balance between soft and sturdy and it’s a gift to be encouraged by him to do the same."

"Semper fi"

"Wife, my very much alive, love, and mother of our gladiator sons - She brings life and color to our lives."

"This friend and I have shared many chapters in life. She's opened the door for me by sharing her own self work. And it is allowing me to grow, be vulnerable, look inside and heal, and be truly seen. My life is changing in magical ways through this and I am eternally grateful for her presence, love, and guidance."

"My dad and his wife have recently moved closer to me. Their move was a huge, tiring chore that I wasn't able to help with but I want them to know how much I appreciate them moving closer! I have 2 young kids and having some family nearby means a lot to me. This move is also one of many times my dad has shown me that choosing to change and move on, though difficult, is always better than being stuck in constant strife."

"Mochaccino is the perfect combination of sweet & soft & silly & adventurous. She makes everything more fun."

"My brother passed suddenly at the age of 39 days before his five year anniversary to my sister in law Ellen. Mary is Ellen’s sister. Mary has been an endless source of support and positivity in a very dark time. We are all grieving but my brother was Ellen’s person and perhaps not Mary’s favorite person. She’s been stalwart 24/7 continuing to check-in and be there for everyone in this hard time."

"She is an amazing teacher who goes above and beyond for her students (acquiring actual animal organs for dissection for her middle schoolers), with little appreciation from her district. She is also a hardworking and loving and creative mom, spouse, sister, daughter, and sister. She is selfless and doesn’t take enough time for herself."

"Shes done so much for me over the years, continues to show up and be there for me, and I only help I can be there as much for her!"

"my whole life, he has been resilient, never stops going for the best he can do"

"She came into our lives having been abused and dumped. Over time, she opened her abused and broken heart again to us. She taught us the power and healing of love."

"She has always been there for me and as we both grow older, I hope to drive home how much she means to me and care for her as she did me."

"My good friend, he’s incredibly thoughtful, creative, and generous."

"Francine lives in service to others. She is fiercely loyal and always going the extra mile."

"I am in absolute awe of her, her devotion to her five children & to her patients, her infectious positivity, her endless capacity for care, her constant nurturance, grace, thoughtfulness, & generosity. She leaves a deep impression of kindness with everyone she touches. For my haiku, I was inspired by Ada Limón’s poem “The Raincoat.”"

"She's my friend and a mentor / beacon of light and love. She always has the most supportive, thoughtful, wise words to share when I'm feeling lost, sad, or down. She brings a wildly different perspective to many of my conversations. She is generous and giving, and I want to show her the same generosity she always shares. And she is turning 50 next week!"

"My mother goes above and beyond to support me and my daughter. She has been my full time child care from the time my daughter was a 3 months old and I had to go back to work, while being severely disabled with a back injury and stroke. She has been the only person I can call on to listen to my anxieties and life problems at anytime of day and she never judges me or makes me feel bad but is also honest with me when I’m in the wrong. My mother has overcome addiction and become the loving mother I never had as a child. I’m so proud of her and eternally grateful for everything she’s given me and continues to give me."

"My friend and neighbor, Angelika ensures that every interaction she has with every person, regardless of relationship, is underpinned by love and kindness. She makes Philadelphia an even better place."

"A true Renaissance man. Talented and compassionate neurosurgeon. Brilliant teacher. Now at age 92 nearing the end of his earthly life. I suppose."

"She's the love of my life. She has a forever spark inside of her and reminds me daily that things will only get better together"

"My friend since 2nd grace, she’s always been the kind and thoughtful one, smoothing out my rough edges"

"He does everything for me and our boys. He loves to read and I always put a candle in his office when he reads"

"Caitlin has dedicated her legal career, both past jobs and future aspirations, to fighting for those who are vulnerable and who have been historically disadvantaged by our society (i.e., disadvantaged as a result of institutional racism, sexism, etc.). She speaks truth to power and is not afraid to use her privilege and expertise to challenge institutional greed."

"Richelle is a kind, artistic and helpful friend."

"Tracy is a force for good."

"She is the best human and is always there for everyone around her. She makes time for others ahead of herself and is a genuinely good person."

""

"My beautiful wife, she keeps me at my best."