Monday, October 29, 2007

Is It A Little Too Early?

I know we’re not even past Halloween yet, but I seem to be fast forwarding to Thanksgiving in my mind. Why, you ask? As I sit here thinking about my week, I can’t help but pray “Thank you, Lord.” I have so much to be thankful for. Here’s what I mean….

Monday I took a walk with my neighbor and her baby. And I was thankful. For not being too busy to spend time with her.

Tuesday I spent the evening with the Apples of Gold gang. And I was thankful. For a home cooked meal (by someone else) and a beautiful home to eat it in (not mine).

Wednesday I had a teacher conference regarding one of my kids. And I was thankful. Not for the reason we were there, but for a teacher in the public school who is committed to praying for my child and seeing God do a work in that one’s life.

Thursday I was home alone almost all day. In spite of the projects I had going I stopped and went outside. And I was grateful. Grateful for blue skies, warm temperatures and leaves so beautiful they take your breath away. And a God who is with me wherever I go, even sitting on a swing in the park.

Yesterday I went out to lunch with my husband and then we hung around a bookstore together reading magazines we’re too cheap to buy and drinking coffee that’s too expensive. And I was so thankful. For a man who likes to be with me, and shares my same interests.

Earlier today my living room was filled with girlfriends praying and planning for the women of our church. And I was grateful. For prayer and laughter and purpose.

Tonight I’m sitting here listening to my son’s 17 or so friends from the 10th grade class playing a game together in my living room. And although it’s loud, I’m grateful to have them all here. Grateful to see how he acts with his friends…and I still like him.

Have you noticed the common thread in my pre-Thanksgiving list? People. Friends. Family. God. Fellowship! When I think of the things I’m thankful for – it’s almost always about people. I’m so glad that God gave us each other. Time spent with others can be so fulfilling. He never meant for us to try and live this life alone. I’m sure it’s not even possible. It certainly wouldn’t be any fun. And I’m all about fun!

People add the richness and diversity to life. They bring support, laughter and comfort. Yeah, sometimes they bring pain, conflict and hurt feelings but that’s part of life that grows us. And when no one is around and you feel lonely, you can count on the presence of God to be there with you.

If you’re reading this, I’m thankful for you, too. And I hope when you start working on your Thanksgiving List (you do make a list every year, don’t you?) that it’s full of people you simply couldn’t do life without! And if it isn’t….thank God in advance for the friends He’s going to give you because you’ve asked.

Thank you, Father, for giving us a piece of yourself with skin on. I believe it’s never too early to start celebrating….Happy Thanksgiving!!

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