Thanksgiving With A Twist

Thanksgiving isn’t all about being thankful for the good things in life. That’s usually what we do though during this season. We focus on those nice and sometimes pleasantly unexpected things that have happened during the year. This year I want to that as well, but with a slightly different twist. I’m looking at those things that are not generally considered blessings and finding a way to give thanks for them.

For instance, my husband has had a rough year with his health. We’ve gone back and forth to doctor’s appointments and numerous procedures. What about this can I find to be thankful for?

• He’s still alive.

• We’ve had to depend on God.

• I’ve realized anew how much I love him and want him around for many more years.

• It’s made our family how important it is to make the most of each day.

• Even though our finances have taken a hit with deductibles and uncovered expenses, we’re still okay financially.

I think that’s a good list. So, let’s look at another situation and see how my thanksgiving with a twist goes.

One of my daughter’s best friends is living with us this year. Having three teenagers in the house, all with no license yet, has created a little situation. I’ve given up some activities temporarily (I think) to be available to them. Again, I ask myself, “What is there to be thankful for in this situation?”

• I am able to be a blessing to a young lady who really wanted to complete her senior year at the same high school where she began.

• I’m beginning to learn how to sacrifice without complaining. The key phrase is beginning to learn. I’m not nearly there yet, but I’m on the road.

• I have time to evaluate my former activities. This will help me decide which ones I’ll resume when this season is over and which ones I’ll let go of permanently.

• It’s helping me hone my time management skills.

• Sometimes schedule conflicts force the girls to make choices or other transportation arrangements, so they’re learning about sacrifice and time management as well.

1 Chronicles 16:11-12 says “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.” Blessings come in all shapes and sizes and wrapped in covering that makes us think they’re anything but. However, by looking for God’s hand in every situation and acknowledging the good he’s bringing about in an unexpected way, our reasons to be thankful grow. So this year as you celebrate Thanksgiving think about having Thanksgiving with a twist. Give thanks for the “hidden” blessings.