Thanks

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gifts.   2 Corinthians 9:15

I have enjoyed all the gratitude posts on Facebook this month.  Some days I read them and say, yup…ditto that.  Other days I read them and think; oh yeah, that’s a good one, haven’t said thank you for that in a while.  On the eve of Thanksgiving, I’m sitting here writing and wondering what it is I am most grateful for.  That’s a big question!  Faith in Christ is obviously the list topper but the list would be a mile long if I wrote down everything I was thankful for…I am SO blessed!

I think the things I am most thankful for this year are the little things that bring me joy!  Things like the laughter of my students or a loving wink from my husband or maybe a quick thoughtful text from one of my teenage children.  Those things mean more to me than a pay raise or a new car. 
I’m truly thankful for lots of big things like the beauty of creation and my sight for instance but noticing the little things is the best. Those little details are like God’s exclamation point to prove his emphatic love! I find joy in seeing others being grateful and noticing the little things.  I’m thankful for those God puts in my path who remind me how much I have to be thankful for. I’m thankful when people recognize their need for God and share their excitement when they see Him at work in their life.  

Twenty Thanksgivings ago my oldest son was born.  After 32 hours of labor I was VERY Thankful to be holding that 10# 2oz 24” long baby boy in my arms! That was my best Thanksgiving ever.  One of the things I remember was the nurse who had been with me since 7 am that morning and stayed late that night till the very end.  She was a mother of 8herself and instead of going home to be with her babies, she stayed with Dave and I until we welcomed our baby into the world.  She told us that if we wanted to make the world better, more loving, more grateful and more holy, it started with one baby at a time. She told us to love hard, pray harder and teach him to do the same and the world would be richer.  It was simple, sound loving advice that I try to remember to follow.  

When I count my blessings, most of them are people!  People, who inspire me, strengthen me, support me, love me and teach me what it means to live as a child of God.  Thank you for the gifts!  Happy Thanksgiving!
 
A seed to plant:  Write a note to 3 people you are thankful for. Be sure to tell them how they have blessed you and why you’re grateful for them.  Gratitude is always in fashion.

 Blessings on your day!