Honoring Daniel's Place

The following speech was given by Yossi, a Daniel's Place member, at the first Daniel's Place open house.

Dear friends, family members, and blessed staff:

Good evening and welcome to Daniel's Place. It is with great pride and honor that we gather here today to mark the official opening to a program that has already opened the hearts and spirits and the minds of those who have already crossed through its doors. As a member of this group I can say that we truly have something very special here.   Something much more than just a support system. We experience an energy here.   It is remarkable to say that I have experienced this energy first hand. This magical energy brings healing and strength to people inflicted with a disease that takes many forms, called mental illness. As we gather from week to week we share our mood, our feelings, and our experiences in life. In doing so, we help each other grow strong to move forward in our own lives. From the very first day that I walked in I saw a picture of a young man in a frame. I had never met this person; only soon did I learn of his story.   From time to time, I would talk to Bruce or Wayne about Daniel. I heard many great things about him: a scholar, athlete, actor, humanitarian, out reach worker, writer and so much more. Tragically in 1997, the world lost this special person. You see, Daniel suffered from mental illness and eventually resolved to choose the path of crossing over to the other side. But I read this speech today to say all was not lost. I look forward to meeting and thanking the people who so compassionately in Daniel's honor created Daniel's Place: this being Daniel's parents, the Greenberg family. I would also like to thank supportive parents of group members. You see what we have here is a classic case of triumph over tragedy. Only here one tragedy will bring thousands of triumphs.   May Daniel's story remain in the hearts and minds of all those that heal in his memory. Special thanks to Bruce and Wayne, group directors, who have outstanding ability to help people, along with Gloria, the service coordinator, who greets people with a warm heart and a soft smile. I would also like to thank Jenna [Peer Advocate] for her help, and my special friend David, for being my best friend, and all my new friends at group.

Sincerely Yossi