Any year holds its challenges; for some one year is more challenging than for another. This year, all of us can attest to challenges that have occurred. 2020 has been a historic year to say the least. There are many hard, sad, and painful things that have happened to so many around the world this year due to all that has happened. We should not discount, disregard, or discredit those painful things that have happened. It is important to recognize and deal with the painful things that happen in our lives. There are also always things to be grateful for. This year especially, we could all use a sliver of sunlight, of positivity.
That is why I am sharing with you ten things that I am thankful for and I challenge you to think about and write down (maybe even share) the things that you are grateful for this year. I challenge you to not be vague (ex: “I’m thankful for my family and friends”) but to instead be intentional and specific. This challenge is to remind us of the good things in our lives.
**In no specific order**
I am thankful that I have a family who is thoughtful, caring, supportive, loving, & always there for me.
I am thankful that I have my health; and that my body still allows me to do the things I wish.
I am thankful that my boyfriend moved to North Carolina, from Ohio, this year to be with me.
I am thankful that I got my first adult job out of college and that I am growing my photography business.
I am thankful that I have learned more about relationships, in every sense; and how to value, nurture, and keep those people close to me.
I am thankful that I still have grandparents around who live close to me and support my sister and me.
I am thankful that I have best friends who accept me for me, challenge me, stand up for me, cherish our friendship, and love me.
I am thankful that I live in the United States, that I live in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, that I live in the home that I do, and that I feel safe thanks to so many selfless people.
I am thankful that I am finding out more about myself and that I am discovering who I am more and more.
I am thankful that I am blessed with the undeserving love of God and that I know Him and of His power and mercy and forgiveness.
These are just some of the things that I am grateful for this year. It is so calming and freeing and healing to take a moment to think about what you are thankful and grateful for. While this season will look different for us all; beginning the season this way may shine a positive light on the circumstances.
I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving!