Monday, November 22, 2010

What is thankfulness?

Since my last "feeling sorry for myself" post I've had a revelation of sorts. I can get up in the morning and choose each day to be thankful for what I have! Trust me, it's not easy; it's possible though. I've made some headway since last year and I give that to God for sure!

After a recent church sermon preparing us for the Thanksgiving holiday I was reminded that in
I Thessalonians 5:18 we are called to: "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Hmmmm, all circumstances? Yep.......all circumstances! Even when I've lost my husband and son in an airplane crash? Even when I feel that my world has come crashing down? Even when my tears won't stop flowing? How about when I see Patrick's children without their earthly Father who loved them so much? Yep........even then!

What does that look like in real life? I can't say that I know for sure. I'm trusting that if God said it then it's true and it's possible and I'll keep holding on to it. I'll try a new perspective when I can. Being thankful puts my focus in the right place. I'm not sick. I get up each morning maybe a little more slowly but I get up. I have a beautiful home with family and friends to love. I have food on my table with more overflowing. I have clothes to wear and a church to go to and I can express myself in a free country. I have MUCH to be thankful for!!


 Will and Colin

 Reesie with her new puppy! (notice the pigtails!)

 left to right
Colin Rooney, Bobby Sole, Sean Rooney, Bryan Johnston

Patrick would have turned 28 on November 17th, 2010



Life is a gift! Live in thankfulness for that gift!
Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

XOXO

7 comments:

julie said...

I love your perspective. You are truly and inspiration. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for making me be more thankful for what I do have, and to not take it for granted. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

Anonymous said...

This is my real darlng daughter Debi. When we were talking last week, I felt the hand of GOD sending us strength. Thank you LORD. You and I have so much to be thankfull for. I look forward to Thanksgiving and all of the beautiful family we will have gathered there. Only GOD loves you more than I do. Dear old Dad.

Cathleen said...

Beautifully said...Thanks for reminding me of what I have to be thankful for!

Anonymous said...

Debi, I believe we are to be thankful in all circumstances with all my heart. It has been easy to believe, because I have not faced the challenges life has brought you. I am thankful for you and the gift God has given you in sharing your story; you are a blessing to others. much love, cathy z

Lokus' Ultimate Journeys said...

That was so beautiful, and yes you have a lot to be thankful for you have 2 beautiful grandchildren, and 2 wonderful sons, and daughet in laws that love you very much and will be there for you when needed, we all have a lot to be thankful for and sometimes forget about the ones who have so little. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving and hope to see you soon. Love to all

Bryan Johnston said...

Hey Debi. I just think you are really something special. I just found your site for some reason and have spent the morning reading and crying. My heart has been so impacted because of you and your amazing family. There is so much more to come and I am proud to be a part of it now. Love you Bryan