This has been an up and down week. The drama of the election coming to an end. The onslaught of opinions and insights and exhortations from all sides. My own myriad of reflections and contemplations have also kept my heart on a daily roller coaster. And though I have come to many conclusions (the biggest one being that Hope is a person...Jesus...and Change begins with me), I have realized that in times of uncertainty it's good to be reminded that in everything give thanks.
Gratitude has a way of settling things. It acknowledges the good and the providential...it's finding the silver lining when all has seemed dark. It says to God "You are good and You love me" even when I don't understand my circumstances. It restores our souls to peace and joy and hope. It causes us to not just have a "glass is half full" positivism, but thankfulness realizes the reality that "my cup is truly overflowing". For the anxious or depressed, a thankful heart offers a soothing balm to the places of emotional turmoil in our minds and reminds us that "you have not been forgotten...I see you and am providing for every need, every day". Oh for eyes to see all those daily gifts...oh for a heart that lives a lifestyle of gratitude.
So in the practice of gratitude, I thought I would share a few things I am grateful for right here and right now:
freedom to vote
comfy colorful clothes
spaces for rest
places for creativity
adventuresome spirits
the love and respect of a good man
Here's to hearts open and receptive to all the good gifts from His hand...and for hearts and minds humbly grateful for them...All is grace for we deserve nothing. Yet He has given us Everything we could ever need or desire...for Everything is Jesus.
top photo by uhoh over
top photo by uhoh over
13 comments:
Amen! Truly so much to be grateful for. Bless you, Tami
ah, nothing like words of truth and peace from a bosom buddy. i am right behind ya girlfriend, so don't stop, keep steppin' heavenward.
I couldn't agree more.
may we always have greatful hearts...
Amen sister! This is so true... gratefulness can take you out of any funk... (o:
LOVE your creative spots too!
Watched some Giglio series on God's creative ability, He blows me away...
Philippians 4:4-8 is my rock when I get anxious, or caught looking at my circumstances rather than rejoicing in the Lord, His gifts, and the blessings that He's given me. You are right, a grateful heart is the best medicine! Thanks for sharing your lovely and praiseworthy things!
Phil 4:4-8 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Shannon
Oh, Aimee, I just love this post. Your attitude about hope and change and gratitude just resonate so very well with me. And I love your photos, too. All so pretty and warm and cheerful. You (and I) do indeed have much to be grateful for. I love a person who makes that focus a priority.
Susan
wonderful post. . .love the reflections and esp. that pic of your good man! :)
aimees, love it.
Aimees....lol. had to laugh at my mistype. =) so thankful for you, friend.
come and pick up your award blogger buddy;
http://prairieprologue.blogspot.com/2008/11/payin-it-forward.html
(no strings attached)
I've tagged you to share your 7 favorite things about your kitchen, I hope you don't mind.
Shannon
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