I am thankful for so many things. And not just on Thanksgiving day, but year-round. I live a pretty good life filled with many blessings.
There is just something about this day that floods my body with emotions. Memories rush through my mind, like a glimpse of time replaying for a quick smile. My heart is warmed by the reminders of love given by my friends and family.
I am thankful for many little things: my headphones when I'm on the bus with obnoxious passengers; my sleeping pills on those restless nights; my otterbox because we all know how clumsy I am; DVR, Pandora, price scanners, the chipotle app..the list goes on and on. But let's get a little serious for a few minutes.
At the times in my life where I have felt so low, so lost, so deeply confused and hurt, my family and my friends (my TRUE friends) and even my numerous roommates have been by my side. I am thankful for them.
When I felt like no one understood what I was thinking or what I was feeling, my sister was there. She doesn't judge me, she doesn't tell me I'm right or wrong: she listens and opens her heart to my words. I'm thankful for her.
When I have a terribly inappropriate joke or a secret, or a piece or overly intimate information that I need to share, Katie listens. And usually responds with something witty or a simple "this is why we're friends". I'm so thankful for her.
I would give anything in the world to have my father back with me on this earth, to walk through life with me and to share my memories. However, that is but a dream. Though I miss him terribly, I have grown so much and learned so much through this experience. I have touched others' lives in ways I never could have before. I have learned so much about myself and my relationships with others. I have heard his words echo through my mind for the last four years and I know they will continue to resonate for the rest of my life. I am thankful for everything my dad has given me and continues to give to me.
I have a roof over my head, clothes on my back and food in my belly. I am thankful that I never have to question where I will lay my head, where I will find my next meal or how I will make it to tomorrow.
I have been forgiven. I have been saved. No matter the mistakes I make, He will always love me unconditionally. I am thankful for my God.
I am thankful for every experience I have had in my life, both good and bad. I am thankful for the heartbreaks that have helped me to learn about myself. I am thankful for the mistakes I have made and the lessons I have learned from them. I am thankful that I have the capability of always trying to find the silver lining.
Thanksgiving is a time to spend with the ones you love and to remember that they love you. Be thankful for what you have and know that you always have what you need in Christ. Enjoy your holiday, friends!
