Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving rushed upon me this year; doesn't anyone feel like it came a bit earlier than usual?
I had a lovely day at Dad's house; the kids told jokes and sang songs all morning while he cooked up a storm. Nana and Papa joined us for the meal. After dinner, we sat and discussed books, played cards, slept.

I realized that afternoon that my heart wasn't full. I went through all the motions of Turkey Day, but I never stopped to think about my blessings. I've been too busy to even notice the Holidays approaching, let alone prepare for them in a mindful, meaningful way.

I recognized the need to give thanks. Without expression, gratitude doesn't have a chance to fill my heart with happiness. My content and satisfaction in life has dwindled, not for lack of goodness but because I've neglected to slow down and take the time to give thanks.

I'm grateful for this amazing, rich life. For the little things!

For the way my dad tenderly folded the dough for his prize dinner rolls, and proudly hand-delivered them hot and fresh out of the oven to each of us before we prayed over the food.

For my stinkin' adorable niece, who said "Please, Jessica, will you hold me?" and pulled funny faces with me until we both laughed and laughed and laughed.

For the chance to see my sister as a mama, swirling her daughter around in her arms as they danced in the driveway to the car radio; to see her baby girl throw her head and her hands back as she floated through the air, free and flying, her golden hair streaming behind her.

For a family who plays and teases and giggles.

I am disappointed I didn't take advantage of Thanksgiving as an opportunity to give a peace offering to the Lord, to further my realization and enjoyment of His hand in my life. Did you know from the time of Adam until the Law of Moses was fulfilled, peace offerings were given in conjunction with a feast that symbolized fellowship and friendship among all its partakers and providers, and also a state of joy and gladness? Is this not Thanksgiving?

Christmas is around the corner, I'm aware of that now! I'm not going to let it come and go discreetly: I'm going to GIVE thanks and GIVE love and CELEBRATE this special time of year.

How?

Kris and I agreed that the best way to be mindful of the Savior and feel His love is to serve the people around us. So every day this month, we'll be serving.

In small ways, in special ways, in purposeful ways.