Thanksgiving is a time to pause, enjoy family, and give thanks. For caregivers, families going through trying times, elderly and others, it can be difficult to see past the stress and count blessings.

Plans can change quickly, without warning.
A family going through trying times this week reminded me of the many reasons I have to be thankful. He had learned he has inoperable, terminal cancer. He is often in pain.  They were making plans to finally visit family in other states this summer. She is saddened and confused as their earlier plans are on hold and she perhaps faces a future without him.

How can you give thanks when tragedy strikes?
What do they have to be thankful for? To celebrate? We had barely expressed our love and concern when each of them beamed through tears as they voiced their thanksgiving thoughts.
She: “Praise God, we have some months together; he is home for the holidays and winter. Our friends and family can visit often and we can enjoy what time we have together.”  He: “God has been good to me through the years. I’m thankful for a good wife and family and a comfortable home to enjoy.”

A look at others gives hope and purpose.
She: “I am thankful for our good church family and friends who have brought us prepared meals so I don’t have to be concerned with how to feed everyone. I can turn my attention to him and to those who visit and call.”
He: (with tears streaming down his face) “More than anything else, I am thankful to say it’s okay, I know where I am going.”

If you get within hearing distance, he will ask you about your journey. “Are you going to Heaven? Are you sure?”
And she will give you hugs and ask how you are. “Can we do something for you? Are you okay?”

Turning our thoughts toward praise.

Do you find yourself grumbling or complaining when problems arise? It’s easy to get into that habit and lose sight of all we have. This Thanksgiving I’m determined to turn every single complaint, discouragement, or bump in the road into a “Thank You, Lord!”
Join me?

Hugs,

” … singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” Ephesians 5:19-20  Happy Thanksgiving!