I have a whole list of things for which to be grateful this year! To begin with, it is one of my favorite times of year again! Time for cooler weather, pretty colored leaves and giving thanks!
Gratitude is one of the most important character traits we can practice. We can only think about and focus on one thing at a time, and when we are thinking about all that we have to be thankful for, all our complaints and petty grievances are forgotten. When we consider all that we are grateful for, the focus isn’t on our lack, but on our abundant blessings!
I love opportunities to look past my everyday routine and be reminded of the value of everything and everyone around me! This beautiful Thanksgiving I am extra thankful for:
My Faith
Instilled in me before I can even remember, God is most definitely my rock. He is my protector and my strength, my friend and my encourager – He is my everything. I am forever grateful for Who He is in my life. Without Him, I am nothing. With Him, all things are possible!
Family
This has been an incredible year of learning new dimensions of relationships and I am so grateful that my family was hand selected for me by God. Though we have our struggles just like everyone else, it is awe-inspiring to see how each of us is working to be our best for each other. Words can’t express how much I love my family! I love the value that I see in each of them and I pray that we are remarkable examples for God!
Our Military
What an outstanding group of citizens! To sacrifice their lives for our freedom. I am beyond grateful. I once read somewhere that, Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you: Jesus Christ and the American Soldier. One died for your soul; the other for your freedom. I am so grateful for our brave heroes! May God bless them and keep them safe.
Work
Growing up I always dreamed of working. Every idea I remember having considered what kind of ROI I could get (even before I knew what an ROI was!)! Now I ever so grateful to say that I get to work at two of my dream jobs – one is working with my family’s construction company and the other is running my ladies clothing boutique.
This year has seen such incredible opportunities and connections and I can’t wait to see what next year holds!
Simple Pleasures
A few other things I am extra grateful for:
- Dance Lessons – I have always dreamed of taking ballroom dancing, so when the opportunity presented itself I was thrilled to take it!
- The sun through the leaves – God’s creation and design is beautiful, isn’t it?!
- My health – a year ago I wouldn’t have told you I felt particularly unhealthy, and now, a year later, I am so grateful to be feeling better and more enthusiastic about life!
- My heritage – all those who came before us, the sacrifices our founding fathers made, the selfless choices my parents made – countless things that give me the advantages and opportunities I have today!
- God’s love – do you ever have those moments when you can almost feel the presence of God? It is quiet and all of a sudden you are overcome by His incredible love? In those moments you can’t help but be overwhelmed and amazed at His love!
- My cheerleaders – that’s you all! You cheer me on, encourage me, give me ideas and challenge me to share incredible stories and encouraging thoughts! Thank you for being a part of this blog!
What are you grateful for this year?! Large or small, it is always important to reflect on and share what we are grateful for!
The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I have hope in Him.” – Lamentations 3:22-24
I wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving! May God bless you as you give Him your best!
Until Next Time!
Hope.
PS. This is my second Thanksgiving post! Read what I shared last year: https://www.theamericanlady.com/2016/11/28/how-grateful-are-you/