Thoughts of Thanksgiving

"Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough." - Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey said it best. We all should be thankful for everything that we do have – and for some of us, we should be thankful for the things God has kept away from us. Sometimes we start out thinking that we missed out on material possessions or even people, when in the end, we realize it was because He cared, that he kept those things away from us. He always knows what is best for His people. "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." – John 16:33

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I felt it important to say what I am thankful for. I am grateful for good friends who have endured the test of time. I am thankful for wonderful parents who saw me through many a storm, and whom I am now helping through storms of their own, as they reach their twilight years. Though their latter years have certainly not gone according to their plans, I know that our God has a plan for them nonetheless. I know he will continue blessing them throughout their trials and tribulations. If you had told me in early 2008 that my mother would soon be rendered paralyzed in a nursing home bed, I would never have believed you. After all, it was always she who was strong and healthy, taking care of my father as the need arose. Now, those tables have been turned. I know he misses her in the once vibrant body she was in, but I also know there is thanks in his heart for being fortunate enough to still visit with her daily. I know I am thankful for having both of them. "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." – Exodus 20:12

I have two gorgeous nephews and a beautiful niece who bring me more joy than I ever imagined. For that, I am thankful. "We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done." - Psalm 78:4

My years have taken many a twist and turn, but I always weathered the storms – storms that I now know were for my benefit. Several close friends were always there during those storms and they always offered nothing but a helping hand. You know who you are. For that, I am thankful. "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." – Proverbs 18:24

As Thanksgiving approaches, let us all realize how fortunate we are. For no matter how bad our situations may seem, the old cliché can be inserted here (there is always someone in a worse situation). Let us keep those less fortunate in our prayers. Let us also remember those who have recently lost loved ones, as this holiday season may be especially difficult for them. God Bless You all. ". . . we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight." – 1 John 3:22