We had a great sermon this morning (November 20) where we were asked by our pastor to write down things that we are thankful for this past year. Some even got up to share - small church style. It was a neat exercise. I was thinking back over the year and thought that there are things I can always be thankful for, but I was looking for something specific. I was specifically thankful for a nephew, another wonderful year of marriage, a new TV, and our girls trip to Gatlinburg....just to name a few. As I was reflecting on our trip this year, I got sad about how Grandma wasn't there. It was just sadness that filled my mind instead of the wonderful time we had. The Spirit turned my attention to a wonderful aspect I had been neglecting in that moment. It was the 22 years I got to spend with my Grandma. I chose in that moment to cherish the one year I got to go with her. I chose to think about the wonderful person she was in my life, the impact she had on me, the wonderful mom she gave me, and how healthy my mom is. I chose to think about the blessing of sharing this with my mom, the memories we've made and will continue to make, and the relationship we have. In addition, God's blessed me with an amazing dad, better than any dad I could imagine. He's given me a wonderful husband to partner with in life who loves me unconditionally. In that moment, I realized the true difference between happiness and joy, and I'm so thankful God works in my life to teach me these things.
