"Do not be anxious about anything. But in every situation, by prayer and supplication, with THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
You know what I mean....
There is no Santa, Easter Bunny, or Cupid to believe in. No elf to move each night and pinterest new ways for him to appear. And thankfully, no reason to wait in an unreasonable line for my toddler to get a picture with Mr. Turkey or whatever he would be...
There are no gifts to buy. No need to send out wish lists. No need to prepare goodie bags or treat bags. No need to address cards or send valentines. No need to fill eggs with candy.
There are no "Thanksgiving Parties" to host or go to. No one tries to out do another by an over the top turkey day festival.
And there are no major decorations to add other than fall decorations that can stay up for months. No turkey trees, no cobwebs to spread, and no rainbows to paint.
Thanksgiving is just that. A time to give thanks. And it's peaceful.
It's the one holiday of the major holidays that is still celebrated the way it was intended to be celebrated. Families sitting down together at the table to give thanks to God and each other for all of our blessings. No fluff. No lights. No gifts. Just the gift of each other.
So on this simple holiday, before the hulla-ba-loo of Christmas begins, let me just pause to say how thankful I am.
For my God, who saved my undeserving soul, answers my prayers in ways only He could imagine, and who loves me unconditionally.
For my husband, who, in less than 11 months lost 100+ pounds the hard way. And who continues to inspire me to persevere and give my all.
For my baby boy, who, in these short years has taught me more than I learned in the 28 years before he came along. And whose miraculous existence convinces me that I have a God who, in fact, cares about the desires of my heart.
For my family, who make me laugh, push me to question and learn more, and who encourage me be...me.
For my in-laws, who have treated me like a daughter from day one.
For my friends, who know when I need to talk and know when to just be there in silence.
For my first grade team, who make the journey of teaching pure joy each day.
And for the many other people who I will cross paths with in the future, who are sure to each bring a share of lessons to teach me.
On this simplest of holidays, may your thanksgiving to God bring you peace only he can give!
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