November 2, 2011 – Dayspring Disciples

On my way to the hospital last night I had to stop for gas. It takes a while to fill up the tank on our big van. As I stood there I thanked God that it wasn’t snowing or raining and I realized it was the first time all day I had thanked Him for anything. Wow.

I remember when I was in grade 12 and my dad lost his job at Kodak. I was extremely upset for days and days and days. I remember my mom telling me that I had to thank God for his job loss. What? WHAT? I thought she was crazy. I was supposed to thank God for this horrible thing that happened to us!? [Remember that was back when lay-offs and closings were not an everyday occurrence.] I could not fathom thanking God for such a thing but my mom was steadfast in directing us to thank God in all things.

So today I am trying to be thankful. I do have much to be thankful for. A loving husband and best friend. Five pretty awesome kids. My extended family and friends. A warm house. A vehicle. Jobs for both of us.

That still felt a little too “safe.”

Really – today – this WEEK what can I be thankful for?

Friends in green houses who answer their emails from their doctor’s office and “talk” you through a very rough day.
Friends and family who offer to go with you to the hard appointments [even when you decline their offers].
Friends who hold you up in prayer when you can’t begin to pray for yourself.
Friends and family who commit to praying for you and offer their help if you need it.
Unexpected phone calls and emails from people you never dreamt read your blog offering love and encouragement.
A smiling young man sheepishly delivering a box of food and his mom who made it for us when I didn’t even know she knew.
A lovely young daughter who dresses her baby sister in a coat and shoes and takes her outside to play without being asked while I prepare lunch.
A brave young son who killed a snake in our driveway/garage entry even while shaking and sobbing at his role as a man.
A doctor who respects my convictions.
Finding out other good things about the doctor God sent me to all those years ago.
In-laws who respect your possible need for privacy but who are eager to bring a meal.
Little House on the Prairie – to be watched while I take a nap.
A neighbor who chainsaws while I am trying to nap.