Monday, December 3, 2012

Leftover Thankfulness

November is a time of thanks. We pause to be thankful for our family, friends, jobs...some even take the time to be publicly thankful each day for a different blessing.  I am ridiculously blessed.  God placed me in the arms of parents who loved me from the moment they knew I existed.  They nurtured me, disciplined me, provided for me, encouraged me to learn something new whenever possible, lavished love on me in more ways than I could ever count, and pointed me to Jesus each and every day.  With those parents came extended families that joined with them in raising me to love big, laugh much, learn always and seek God. When I went to college I got to experience a whole new kind of blessing...education.  I got to choose what I wanted to study.  I got to dig deep into beautiful pieces of literature, both the good and bad parts of our history, examine how things work, and establish my own beliefs, opinions and identity.  After graduation I was blessed to find a job in the field that I love  and to be able to work in the same place for six years.  God blessed me beyond measure when he brought the man who was to be husband back into my life after so many years.  With that amazing husband came a remarkable family that has shown me a whole new kind of love and acceptance.  I could go on and on about all the ways that God has chosen to bless my life.  I am thankful every single day.

December is a time of giving.  I pray that this holiday season, as you are busy shopping for family friends...desperately seeking out those perfect gifts for those you love...you would continue to be thankful.  I ask that you remember your blessings and think about those who are less fortunate.  Let your thankfulness and blessings pour out onto others in the same manner that they were poured out onto you.  Truly be cheerful this season...don't let crowded parking lots, busy stores, long lines, or last minute shopping rob you of your joy. 

Let us not allow ourselves to put thankfulness on the shelf until next November.  Thankfulness does not have an expiration date...or calories...so feel free indulge in the richness it will bring to your life.


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