I love the wisdom of Piglet.  He always seems to know the right things to say.  “Our hearts may be small, but they have the capacity to hold great amounts of gratitude.”

Yesterday, the women of our church held a baby shower for the newest member of our family. An abundance of Christian love, thoughtful gifts and a delicious lunch were part of the day. As I sat and visited with special friends, I asked one lady who recently lost her husband how she was doing and she said, “Grateful.” She went on to say that this has been a common response at the senior living apartments where she resides. What a wonderful thought. I imagine we all wish we could have that kind of courage. When we’re going through times of loss, suffering, grief and just the beginning of each day, being grateful is so important to our state of mind.

Sometimes, we have to stop and think hard about what we’re grateful for. Maybe we’d rather retreat back into the comfort of our beds. We may not feel ready to be with others. We may even wallow in our sadness or pain. If we say that simple word, “grateful” we’re not just referring to our physical being. That word can change the way we feel about the rest of the day, week, month and the rest of our lives. Being thankful for all of God’s rich blessings can soon turn sadness into joy and tears into laughter. He gives us the breath of life, He gives us family and friends, He gives shelter and protection, daily bread and on and on and on.

Keeping it simple …

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

This is God’s greatest gift to us and the one that matters so much, because it has to do with our eternity.  It’s not a temporary fix, but one that will last forever.  We can accumulate riches beyond belief on this side of heaven, but none of that compares with what’s waiting for us.

Keeping Thanksgiving alive should be daily activity.  When the day of celebration ends and all the leftovers have been used up, our gratitude should be just beginning.  My family has been so blessed by our church family. Together we have become a group of friends who support and love each other, inspire and encourage, teach, and help with their prayers.

May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures.
May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours.
– Irish Blessing