Give thanks all year

We've survived another Thanksgiving holiday! But the giving of thanks should not end there.

Someone not from the United States asked my husband last week if he knew why we celebrate Thanksgiving, and he had to think about it for a time. Finally, he answered, "Because the pilgrims and indians sat down to share some food and be thankful."

We laugh about that now, but it's just a very bottom line answer. The pilgrims were thankful for their religious freedoms (and dare I say, thankful for the friendly company of the indians). Perhaps the indians were thankful for their abundance and the friendly company of the newcomers. Whatever their reasons for instituting such a holiday, we have much to be thankful for today and every day throughout the year.

Are you healthy? Mobile? Breathing?
Do you have shelter from the cold?
Do you have food to fill your stomach?

What other blessings are you experiencing? I am continually thankful for my family who loves me in spite of many flaws. For healthy children and a loving husband. For vehicles that run and have working heaters. I'm thankful for the work we have and sun that shines. All these are gifts from a heavenly Father who loves me.

"Bless the LORD, O my soul;
         And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
         And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
         Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
         Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
         So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:1-5

May you know His many blessings today and feel His love every day.
Shelley