This Thanksgiving seems to have a new meaning to me. I think I've gained a new perspective this past year on giving thanks. I've been doing the 30 days of thanks challenge on Facebook, posting each day something I'm thankful for. I know for some it isn't your thing, but it has given me a chance to really reflect on each day and think about all the things I'm thankful for. Even on those hard and trying days, I was still able to find something to give thanks to.
It is so easy sometimes to allow the selfish human side of us to sneak in, and we sulk in the things we don't have. We reflect on what others have and want what our neighbors have. We use the line, "Life's not fair," when things aren't going the way we wish they would go. We get caught up in the great deals of the holiday shopping weekend, thinking we NEED all the latest and high tech gear.
But I want to challenge you to be thankful for all circumstances in life. A good friend of mine recently posted on her Facebook page being thankful for the hard and challenging times in her life this year. She is thankful for these moments, because now she can connect with others that may go through similar experiences in life. Wow! What a powerful reflection for others in her faith and walk with Jesus Christ.
As Josh and I are journeying through being a licensed foster care home, we have truly been giving thanks in all circumstances. I never would have guessed 10 years ago that this is what my life would be like right now. If life hadn't worked out the way it has, we wouldn't be starting this chapter in our lives. We are realizing how blessed we are to share our home. God has certainly been carrying us through this experience, and making us feel at peace through it all.
So I hope that you are able to take some time and give thanks for all of your experiences, even though it may be difficult.
