The Thanksgiving Challenge

Blog Post 16 Turkey

www.flickr.com, courtesy of Tim Sackton

At last!  The Holidays are here!  What should start it all off but Thanksgiving.  When I think of Thanksgiving, things that come to mind range from traveling to be with family, preparing the meal, and consuming copious quantities of food—after the man of the house or the family patriarch says a blessing.

Several years ago, back when I kept a journal by hand, which rendered it illegible, I began a tradition.  I can’t remember where I heard or read about it, but it’s stuck with me to this day.  Each year, I sit down with either computer or notepad and list out the numbers 1 to 100.  Beside each number, I write out something I’m thankful for.  Why?

  • It makes me realize how I’ve been blessed. A hundred things may seem like a lot, maybe an even impossible task. I promise it’s doable.
  • It makes me thank God for the smallest things in life. Some items that make it onto my list are the color of the leaves changing, warm fires, and even the sun rising. This may seem petty. It’s not. Seeing the leaves changing reminds me of God’s creation. Warm fires are one of the many material blessings. The sun rising each morning reminds me that I’m alive.
  • It lifts up a down countenance. There have been years where I’ve been struggling with something and in a bad spot in my life when Thanksgiving rolls around. Making this list can be a struggle during those times. By the time I’m finished, I’m reminded of how God has blessed me and how much He loves this sometimes rebellious daughter of the King.

I know this post will reach you the day after Thanksgiving.  That’s okay.  Take time out before you restart your crazy-busy life.  Pull out a notepad or a tablet or whatever suits you best.  Find yourself a quiet spot.  Make your list.  Yes, you’ll have to stretch.  That’s okay.  It makes you realize how many blessings God has poured into your life.  Only then will true thanksgiving enter into your heart.

Question:  For what are you thankful?  Give me five things from your list.

This post does not mention any products.  Therefore, I am not receiving any compensation for writing this post.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

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