Thankful

Every year at my grandparents' home, 

my family gathers before we delve into the feast. 

We sit in a circle and one at a time, 

list the things for which we're grateful. 

It never fails- someone always cries... 

which begins a domino effect of tears. 

They're not sad tears... not at all! 

They're humble

Overwhelmed by God's grace

surrounded by family and love

appreciating those things that are so easily taken for granted.

Every year I say that I'm going to write something out in advance 

and this year I finally am.

(photo by Southern Charm Photography)

I am thankful for no student loans,

that God blessed me with an unbelievable scholarship

and as I see other graduates 

working to clear their debt,

I am so grateful that God had mercy on me 

and blessed me financially.

(photo by Southern Charm Photography)

I am thankful for a loving family. 

We're not perfect.
We disagree on a lot of things. 

But my parents would go hungry for me.

My sister can forgive even my worst offenses.

At the end of the day, my family is solid

supportive

giving.

I'm thankful for TWO jobs.

I'm grateful that in a ridiculous economy

I have been so blessed.

I have a job where my responsibilities are challenging and convicting

and I must love and demonstrate grace, and teach 

but the rewards and innumerable. 

And I have a job where I come home

smelling like cupcakes.

Not too shabby :)

I'm thankful for a church family 

people who want to take care of me

and give me opportunities

and pray for me fervently

I'm thankful for roommates who approach conflict biblically

who love and serve each other 

and create community within our home

(photo by Southern Charm Photography)

I'm thankful for a car that runs, most of the time

more clothes than I need, 

food in the pantry and fridge, 

generally good health, that I never appreciate til it's gone

a city that has stolen my heart with its weirdness

(photo by Southern Charm Photography)

and a boyfriend who loves me,

who pushes me to depend on Christ instead of him

who serves alongside me

leads worship with my students

gives up time and resources to assist me 

on mission trips and other such events

and has stuck by me for three years

despite all my crazy.

I have so much cause for thankfulness.

And in light of those things, I worship my God

from whom all good things come!

I turn my heart from discontent and bitterness

to recognize each of these wonders. 

Thank you, Lord. 


But the absolute best part is
that even without any of those things,
Jesus is enough.
and THAT is why I have hope and purpose
and joy despite circumstances.