So Very Thankful

I read a quote recently that impressed me: "The pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have ever been so impoverished as these, who, nevertheless, set aside a day for thanksgiving." (attributed to H.U. Westermayer)

What does this say to me? Despite the various hardships and uncertainties of life, there is so much to be grateful for. If we will follow the lead of our ancestors--our founding fathers who fought for liberty, the pioneers and pilgrims who pursued new freedoms, our own parents and grandparents who dreamed of a better life--we must be grateful people. We honor their legacy when we find real, abiding gratitude for the lives we lead and the land we live in and the bounties that truly are ours.

Like many of you, I'm looking forward to this day and a nice long weekend. I plan to spend it surrounded by extended family, home-cooked meals, and perhaps a movie or two and a little shopping. I'm grateful for the downtime and family time, definitely! But I know that Thanksgiving is more than turkey and time off.

This is a hallowed day for me to bend my knees, bow my head, and humbly thank my creator. I owe Him my gratitude: for the life I lead, the people I love, and yes, even the challenges I face. They all define me and refine me.

My heart is so full of gratitude, today and the other 364 days of the year. Thank YOU for being a part of my journey and allowing me to be a part of yours. May your Thanksgiving be a day of joy, celebration, and gratitude that lasts in your heart all year through!