What Are You Thankful For?

Thanksgiving is only TWO days away! Like most people, we are eager for some uninterrupted time together spent eating delicious food and partaking in all the family traditions that come out during the holiday season. It might seem trite or rehearsed, but as we head into Thanksgiving, I’m incredibly thankful for my FAMILY.First and foremost, I’m so blessed that God placed David in my life nearly 25 years ago. He stole my heart back then and still does today. He’s been such a good leader and teacher, and an amazing father and encourager.I’ve been blessed to be the mother of two terrific children, who I am so very proud of. They are both filled with compassion for other people and they have hearts the size of Texas. They both make me laugh in their own little unique ways. I’m utterly amazed as I step back and notice how they’ve matured into kind, loving, creative, caring, thoughtful adults, in spite of me and my sometimes-inadequate parenting.Not only has God blessed me with a wonderful immediate family, He’s also brought other special people into my life, including our son-in-law and a very special young woman who feels as though she’s a part of our family. David and I both have great relationships with both sets of our parents and families. Our home has an open door policy and I’m so very grateful for the people who have passed through our doors, who have stolen our hearts and who have become a part of our family, even if they aren’t related by blood.

I’m thankful that God is bigger than me and that He has bigger and better plans for me than I could ever imagine. As we were back in Minnesota last week, where I grew up and where David and I first met and got married, my mind wandered to the place of wondering what our lives would look like if we’d been able to stay in Minnesota instead of traveling all over the country with David’s job. I wondered, specifically, what the past 16 years would have looked like. Would David’s accident have happened? How would our lives look different? After a little speculation and reflection, I realized that I’m truly blessed beyond measure that I didn’t get to map out my life- that God directs all the details of my life. I was reminded that God is God and I am not for a reason. He knows the big picture and he works things for my good, because I trust Him. If I’d been allowed to control the events in my life, I’d no doubt be in a heap of trouble.

I’m also very thankful for the ability to smile and laugh, even when life doesn’t make much sense or when I’m facing a difficult situation. We all know people who’ve gotten stuck in fear, anger, worry, anxiety or bitterness. I think sometimes this happens because they’ve forgotten to find reasons to laugh throughout whatever struggle they’re facing. I’m so blessed that David has led by example in this area of our lives. Through everything we’ve been through, our quirky, crazy personalities have been able to shine even in the dark times.

I challenge you to stop what you’re doing right now and ponder on a few things that you’re thankful for in your life. If you’re struggling right now, try to find one or two things that still bring you great joy, despite your situation.

I pray you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!