Well, it's November and in the last few days, we've experienced another round of floods, nearby tornadoes and a time change to boot. At least, the time change gave us one extra hour to sleep. That made up for all the times the emergency alerts went off during the wee hours of Friday morning.
I love this time of year! Thanksgiving is just around the corner and no matter how hard the retail world tries, there is just not much they can do to commercialize Thanksgiving. Perhaps, that's why I love the holiday so much. I know holidays can bring all sorts of feelings up to the surface. For some, Thanksgiving will represent one less seat at the table this year. I know that's true in our family with my mom's loss. For others, Thanksgiving is just a busy time with lots of food preparations, family and little sleep. For others, it's a grand day to eat and watch football.
Have we lost the "Thanks" in Thanksgiving? All too often, things get in the way of a thankful heart. When we live each day with a grateful heart, we notice the good in the ordinary. We see the good side of people. We learn to appreciate people, even their quirky side. (We all have quirky sides!) We take note of the beautiful clouds in the sky or a song on the radio or the sight of a newborn baby. We take time to remember precious memories. We become grateful for everything we enjoy, recognizing that they are all gifts from God.
As you start the month of November, what would it look like for you to live each day with a grateful spirit? For me, I would have to cut complaining, grumbling and any form of grumpiness out of my verbal diet. And you would too. Are you up for choosing gratitude this month?
Thanksgiving is possible not because your life or circumstances are perfect, but because God is present and alive. As I read God's Word, I see the challenge for all of us to be grateful people. Psalm 136:1-2 is beautiful.... "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods; his love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords; His love endures forever."
From now through November 30, I dare you to make it a habit to become more grateful. Here's some ideas: Keep a gratitude journal. Express gratitude to others by saying "I'm so grateful for you because..." Send a thank you note of appreciation. Thank God each day in prayer. Count your blessings each day. BE grateful. My prayer for you and I this holiday season? That we would cultivate thankful hearts.No grumbling ...about anything. Ready? Go!
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
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