Thankful

In this season more than others, we take time to remember what we are thankful for.  It's really something we should be doing all year long, but it is also important to have touchstone moments that really make us step back and reflect.  Birthdays, New Years, and Thanksgiving.

It's funny; going over my list this year is very different than last years.  To others it may look like a list of regrets or things that upset me this year.  But this list of blessings means more to me than others have in even the recent past.  I've learned and grown more through these in so many different ways.

1. I'm thankful I lost my job - It really was one of the best things that could have happened to me.  I'm happier.  I'm healthier.  I've gotten more time with my family.  It's something I should have walked away from a long time ago.  And while I'm still searching for that next permanent job, I've seen God provide in ways that I did not know before.  It's been humbling, but it's been good.
2. I'm thankful that I have had to confess some sins - Doing so privately and publicly here.  It means God is still working on me.  That He still speaks, and I'm not so hardened as to not listen.  It's deepened mine and Jamie's relationship.  And it's getting us closer to goals we have as a couple.
3. I'm thankful that we're staying with my in-laws - And that there are others that have offered.  Because it means we have family that loves us and that we love to be with.  It means they have room.  I'm grateful that we get along well with both my family and Jamie's and want to spend time with them.  That's not always the case.
4. I'm thankful I have stubborn children - Because while it may not be easy now, it can pay off in the future.  Stubborn, head strong children can be more likely to resist peer pressure and more likely to be leaders.  To know where their worth comes from.  It's challenging now, no doubt, but it will be worth it.

I'm thankful for my family.  I'm thankful for my friends.  I'm thankful for you readers, more than you can imagine.

I have so much to be thankful for, even for those unlikely blessings.

What are you thankful for?  What things in your life caused anxiety and heartache at the time, but now should be counted as blessings?

If at no other time, why not take a few moments to remember them today and tomorrow. 

Be thankful, always.