As we approach this here 2020 Thanksgiving season, I am curious to see how we will celebrate in these unprecedented times.

We can all agree that so far, the year has been one of change, anxiety, fear, aloneness, illness, death, grief, fatigue, mental and physical instability, monetary challenges and for many, ‘extended parenting.’  All in all, it has been a challenging period, and unless you have had a new born baby or won a million dollars, you probably have not been as elated as you otherwise usually are.

In contrast, prayerfully and reflectively I have been able to assess the things around me, personally, socially, professionally, and environmentally for which I am able to continually give thanks.  Humbly, I have been able to zoom into the things that once were taken for granted, and now give thanks for them.  Finances, health and job aside, I am able to give thanks for:

LIFE – Though I tested negative post illness, I know in my heart, based on symptoms experienced, that I was affected by the virus of the pandemic, but….I am here and alive and so I give thank!!!

ENCOURAGEMENT – Over the past months I have been able to reach out to those around me – shut-ins, homeless, friends, family and associates, and speak into their spirts.  I was able to bless and or support them prayerfully, verbally or financially – and for this ability I do give thanks.

RELATIONSHIPS – I am able to give thanks for the personal time provided by the many changes I am experiencing.  In different ways I have been able to embrace, solidify, and harness some key relationships.  It has been a blessing to be able to exercise my interpersonal skills in strengthening the relationships that are important to me.

SELF ASSESSMENT – My alone time, my daily devotions, my nature walks, my new found love for novels (thanks to one of my dear friends who saw it fit to start a virtual book club during these ‘shut-in’ times, and thought to include me), have all contributed to what I believe is a better me.  I give thanks that I have been able to humbly, intentionally and preparedly, stay spiritually, physically, nutritionally and relationally fit!  I have even opened myself to receive and embrace a special ‘love interest’ 😊.

So, regardless of your loss, challenge, set back or health, let us take the time to humbly look within and find the things we wish to give thanks for in this thanksgiving season.  

Colossians 3:17 (NIV)  “And whatever you do, whether in words or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.                           – Dr Sue

#thankful

#thanksgiving

#Humble

#BeHIP

#gratitude