Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. For days prior, people run around making plans for the holiday...who they'll eat with, what's on the menu, and shopping for all the fixings.

How many take the time to really think about what they are thankful for. Below is my list, although long...

God: For staying with me even when I walked away from Him. He was always there behind the scenes watching and probably talking to me, giving me signs, but I wasn't ready to hear or see them. For his grace when I didn't deserve it.

Martin: For picking me up, cleaning me off, and loving me for who I was and allowing me to become the person I am. Standing beside me all the while and all the way to eternity.

Marj (my mother in law) For being the Mom I didn't have. For her mentoring and guidance and education not only in the bible but in men, marriage and people in general.

Carrie: Your beauty shines from within and is like a bright light. Your kind and loving heart is a blessing. Your strenth is amazing!

Michelle: You light up a room with your smile. Your ability to write and to educate and help others is a gift.

Mindi: You've shown yourself to be a mature woman and this trial will ultimately grow you even more. If you weren't already beautiful, you will become even more so.

Meagan: You came into the world fighting for life...You continue to surprize me with things I didn't know about you. You're a beautiful, intelligent woman and I pray that you 1) get the job you want and 2) that God would continue to grow you into the person he wants you to be.

Candice: You are truly amazing. You always tried new things with the courage of a warrior. You entered the Army, went to Iraq and came back to us. You're gentle spirit is something that draws people to you...i.e. everyone is your friend.

Tucker: You were a gift from God. You almost didn't make it into the world. The first moment I saw you I was smitten. May you grow into a loving and kind man and always put a smile on my face.

Ben: When I come to see you and you notice me, I see your beautiful face light up and smile and come to me and it warms my heart as you do to so many. May God always bless you.

Jonathan: You are so amazing...you have grown into such a beautiful little man that everyone is proud of...You bring joy to so many and I pray that through you God will work wonders.

Garrett: From the first time I held you on Thursday, November 12, all I saw was a beautiful gift from God. Whatever his plan for you, we will accept knowing that His will be done and not ours.

Mom: As the anniversary of your death approaches, I am reminded of my actions as a child that weren't always kind. For this I ask forgiveness. To you I am thankful for the traits that you passed on to me and in turn made me who I am. I hope that when I see you again, we can start a new relationship.

For all these people have shaped who I am and have filled my heart to overflowing. Should one person be this blessed?? Is it fair? You bet!! I choose to love and accept these people. Loving is one way to give back. Loving is fun and rewarding. Loving someone unconditionally is the most unselfish act one can perform.

Lord, I am truly for blessed. Blessed as I am and still a sinner. Thank you for not giving up on me, for guiding me, being my strength for me to draw on, to be there as I say thank you for life, love and eternity.

Good night all