Reflections of Thankfulness

My typical Turkey Day has always been crazy busy with cooking and socializing.  So much so that I probably never took the time I should have to truly reflect on the reason for the day.  Thanksgiving is a day to stop our busy lives and reflect on all the blessings we have and be truly thankful for them.  Yes, we should do this every day, but – let’s face it – most of us don’t.  This year I made time to reflect. It brought me to tears as I considered all my many blessings.  I will not go into great detail here, but here are some of the major highlights…

Life.  I wake up every morning and put my feet on the floor.  Some days are better than others, but every day is a new day, a day that I am alive, a day that I can make a difference in somebody’s life, even if it’s just a friendly smile.

God.  I have a personal relationship with God.  I do not know Him intimately, who can know Him as He is infinite, but I have friendship and fellowship with Him and I love Him dearly.  It is this personal relationship that allows me to get through those days that may not be so easy.  It allows me to give my troubles up to Him and receive a sense peace in return.  It can take my breath away as I ponder it.

Family. They say you can’t pick your family. Ah, but truly, I am blessed.  I know too many families that have issues of jealously, greed, pettiness, and grudges.  Forgiveness is key in these situations, but that old pride gets in the way all too often and some families never enjoy a peaceful, loving relationship.  My family is wonderful, I’m not talking just hubby & kids (and grandkids – who bring me such joy) but even my parents, brother and extending family (yes my in-laws – shocking isn’t it, haha).  I have been truly blessed with a loving family.

Friends.  I have many acquaintances but few friends.  This is by choice.  Being an Army brat, we moved a lot and you tend to guard your heart from the pain of leaving dear friends.  Of course, my husband is my best friend, but I have others that I have allowed into my life.  Guess what?  They don’t judge me, they just accept me for the goofy person I am.

Freedom.  Ok, the USA has its issues, BUT I would still rather live here than anywhere else!  There are some states I prefer to others (like the warm/sunny ones) but all in all, we have a freedom in this country that no one else enjoys.  Sometimes I think people misuse those freedoms, but that is just my personal opinion. The fact is they have those freedoms.  I will put the military in this category too.  One of my favorite t-shirts says, “If you love your freedom, Thank A Vet.”

Oh, I could go on & on, but I won’t.  I hope that you had some time to reflect on what you are thankful for.  Please feel free to post them here.