A Day to Give Thanks

My friend Levi had this on his facebook status, and I'm stealing it:

On October 3, 1789, George Washington wrote a National Thanksgiving Proclamation. In it, he stressed the importance of recognizing one's obligation to LEARN HOW TO THANK GOD for the blessings that He has bestowed throughout the year

We sat around the breakfast table this morning and each took their turn saying what they are thankful for. Things like "chocolate, my baby sister, my toy airplane, food to eat, our home" were expressed by all. We have many things to thank our Heavenly Father for. It's hard not to compare this Thanksgiving to last year's. We are once again going to my parents, both my brothers and their families are going to be there, as will my grandmother & my aunt. We will have turkey and mashed potatoes and gravy. There will be green bean casserole, and jello like always. Last year, we were scraping by for food & money. My mom asked us to bring a side dish & then bought all the food so it wouldn't be a burden to us. My husband did not have a job. We didn't know how we were going to pay rent or keep our kids warm, yet, we were happy and OK. Our faith was strong, and we were richly blessed by a loving Heavenly Father. We had caring friends & family who provided ways for us to WORK & EARN our money. Today, my husband has a full-time job. We have a steady, predictable, income and don't have to worry as much about paying rent or keeping our kids warm.
So much has changed for us economically, but really the things that matter haven't changed at all. We have our family, our faith, & our freedom. We have a healthy family, a car to drive, and a house to live in. Our "lows" were difficult for us, but they are still way better than other people around the world in their "highs". Today, I thank the Lord for my life. For allowing me to experience this crazy journey, to be able to understand and feel joy, because the only way we can know joy is to know sorrow. Who knows what next year's Thanksgiving will have in store for us. But I'm sure there will be turkey, and mashed potatoes, and gravy and lots of joy & gratitude.