Though our lives should be filled with thanks regularly, I find it encouraging that this country has set apart a specific day to give thanks. And that's one of the reasons why it bugs me when people wish me a "Happy Turkey Day" because the focus is not the turkey, but rather, how grateful we should be for all the blessings we have. Like Thessalonians says, we should be thankful in everything. And though I've heard this throughout my years as a Christian, I can safely say that I learned the TRUE meaning of these words this year, when God has given but also taken from me.
This year has been rough--physically and emotionally. From dealing with a bad breakup that left me disappointed and broken, God has slowly been molding me and teaching me to rely solely on Him. He never will leave me. He will never break promises. He shows me grace. He is quick to forgive. How could I want anything else? I thought I had all the answers, a certain path down the future and God took it all away. And now, more than ever, I realize that yeah, it was painful, but the beauty of pain is knowing that it will all end and that when it does, you will be a better person than when you began. God has challenged me in school as well. Though the going seems tough, He has provided a way, a truth, and life.
I lost my grandma in August and during the holidays, the pain is greater than ever. Though she is gone, I am thankful for her memory and her love. I know that she is in good hands. I also miss my grandpa so much right now. It hurts to even think about it. He would have loved to see me graduate from college, land a good job and to see all of us grown up. I miss him.
But at the same time, my earthly family is more than I could ask for. They fill me with more love than anyone could ever provide. Because of our losses and because of my breakup, I have a new-found appreciation and love for my parents. They are truly my best friends now. God has surpassed any expectation that I had because I seriously have the best parents in the world.
Like Job tells us, the Lord gives, the Lord takes away, but blessed be the name of the Lord.
He knows what He's doing. And all I can say is thanks.
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