“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” -I Thessalonians 5:18 NIV
When Christy was in college, she and I read Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach. Although I knew to thank God and had a thankful heart, this book was key in developing in me a lifetime practice of thanking God and counting blessings at the start of each new day. Consequently, years later when we were blindsided by Dale’s stroke, it was natural for me to be grateful – for his life, quick medical response, air flight, my iPad, honest ER doctors, family arriving within hours, and so much more.
Excerpt of blessings listed in my Caring Bridge journal 10-20/21-14
- visits from pastors and friends
- brother-in-law’s research
- our son David, a godly man and honorable son
- Officer’ s kindness and consideration for our family
- sister’s availability and, of course, love and good food
- today’s technology that keeps family and info at our fingertips
- those who’ve walked this walk sharing insight, hope and their stories
- smiling, caring, knowledgeable medical staff
- coffee
- friend having Dale’s laundry done before I even got home
- Christy’s volleyball team winning first round of districts
Whatever the situation, there are always things for which we can be thankful. Our hearts and lives benefit from thankfulness as it renews our minds, fills us with hope, and reminds us of just how very much we have. Since the truth is that none of us are guaranteed tomorrow, or even our next breath, let’s be thankful for the blessing of breath/oxygen. In my darkest, most helpless hours, I counted blessings of shoes on my feet, water, bathrooms, life itself…things we so easily take for granted, especially in the U.S. where we live amidst such abundance.
When I determined to journal, I started with a blank journal, each day listing 3 things for which I was thankful; after just a week I had a reminder of 21 blessings! We ARE blessed and it’s healthy to acknowledge it. I suggest you give it a try!
Oh, Father, You Who made us know the value of thankfulness; help me to cultivate gratitude in my daily life. (Psalm 100:4)
SONG LINK:
Julie Andrews “My Favorite Things”
https://youtu.be/bACiODIbf84
For Those Who Care 
Thank you Donna for your post… This weekend we celebrated my husbands 80th birthday. It was a surprise party for him. It wasn’t the easiest task to pull off, as he is always home and we are so entwined in each other’s lives as he depends on me for just about everything. But we did it with the help of SO many family and friends. I am beyond grateful for the friends in my life. They stepped up BIG to help me. It was a huge success and I feel blessed to have each and every one of them In my life. Thankful beyond words….
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Thanks for sharing and happy birthday to your husband! You obviously have many blessings
– God is good! Keep practicing thankfulness😊💕💐
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