MIDLAND, Texas — Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and while the holiday often centers around food, it’s truly about much more—gratitude, reflection, and community.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life and forget to just stop, reflect and appreciate how far you’ve come.
Buckner Family Pathways, a Midland nonprofit that helps single-parent families become self-sufficient, hosted a Thanksgiving potluck to remind a few moms of the beauty in slowing down.
Gracie Favela, the director of Buckner Family Pathways in Midland described the atmosphere, "You can feel the love, the laughter, and the connections being made here today.”
Among the attendees was Demtryce Morris, who has been part of the Buckner program for four years. In December, Morris will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology—a moment she describes as life-changing.
“I was a little afraid at first,” Morris said. “I didn’t want it to feel like charity or a shelter, but it wasn’t like that at all. It was a way for me to rebuild, grow, and disconnect from unhealthy things in my life. It was a Godsend.”
Morris credits the program for helping her transform her life.
“When I came here, I only had three college credits. Now I have 120. They support your education in every way, with scholarships, mentoring, tutoring, and even a computer lab. Anything you need, they are here for you,” Morris said.
As she completed her graduation application, Morris said her heart was filled with gratitude.
“This program has been my launching pad, and I know every step I take is ordered by God.”
Her journey doesn’t stop here. While Morris plans to enjoy a couple of weeks with no homework, she’s already eyeing her next goal: earning her master’s degree.
Gracie Favela, director of Buckner Family Pathways, said she’s proud of Morris’s journey. “Demtryce is dear to my heart. She’s been with us for over four years, and it’s bittersweet to see her leave. But I keep telling her, it’s not a goodbye—it’s a see you later.”
As the holiday season begins, Morris had advice for other single parents: “Don’t be too prideful to accept opportunities. Take them as stepping stones or a launching pad. That’s what I did, and I’m so grateful.”
For Buckner Family Pathways and the families it serves, this Thanksgiving was a time to celebrate growth, resilience, and the power of community.