Today I am grateful for all that I have and the time (unknown) that I have left to enjoy. Our days are numbered but none of us knows that number. So today – I choose to give it all I’ve got…. To shine bright, dream big and be honest in kindness and love.

I grew up in a family that camped on vacation. Memories, lessons and times that were very dear to me and have served me well throughout my life. My sister and I had a habit of running ahead on the trails to find the next new and exciting sight to behold, whether it was a babbling brook, a banana slug, or a cool big rock to climb and sit upon. Every moment held excitement and that bottled up energy inside so full of life. Every once in a while, however, I would have the great “luck” to have a snake meander across the path separating me from the rest. (I’m not so much into snakes.) One time a train was coming – my family had said – just jump over it – but I had visions of the snake jumping up and biting me as I jumped across… so I froze. My father came and I jumped toward him as he held his hand out to me.

There has always been safety in my father’s grasp or embrace. As times come that loom in front of us as “a snake” we must remember that our Heavenly Father’s grasp is there. His hand extended – His arms open saying – “jump, I’ll catch you.” In that leap of faith – we are free to live – to dream – to love all of those around us as we are called to do in this life.

So today – jump, leap and run arms wide open into life and live this new day – running ahead, smiling, giggling, looking for the new and exciting sights along the way.
...that they may be perfected [g]in unity, so that the world may [h]know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me. John 17:23b

I am so grateful for technology and how it brings together - makes easy - getting in touch and staying in touch of friends and family.

Love to you all today!

Today – I am grateful for a loving God who will never leave me – doubt me – disappoint or discourage, but Who encourages me to be strong and take courage – to not fear or be afraid for…..

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:7-9

Today I give thanks for the changing weather; cool mornings and sunny beautiful days. The birds are singing with gratitude as well and I smile. Enjoy, my friends.

Give thanks to the LORD for He is good. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1. 

(Photo credit: Kirk Strutz)

Today – I am grateful for a loving God who will never leave me – doubt me – disappoint or discourage, but Who encourages me to be strong and take courage – to not fear or be afraid for…..

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:7-9

Thankful Day One

Wow!! The first day of November already and I have so many things I wanted to have done by now.  I awake grateful for the crisp weather with a list a mile long of things to be accomplished.  Run out the door already having made two return trips upstairs for forgotten items and remembering a third and can’t go back again or I’ll be late.  I get in the car, check my route via google, finding it clear, and head out.

In the midst of it all there is so much to be thankful for.  You see, I arose from a warm bed having been embraced by a snuggly husband.  I had a large selection of clothing to choose from, hot water for a shower and a warm, safe, comfortable home from which I departed into a reliable, comfortable car to make my way to work.  I am so very fortunate; so very blessed, and these were but a few of the blessings in my life.  I continued my trek to work in a spirit of blessing for others and arrived at my job wondering how I might bless others throughout my day.

What are you grateful for today?

In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

I saw a movie some time ago that was based on the story of a family that lost their husband, father and chief provider in the attacks of 9/11.  The story centers around the young son who has Asperger's syndrome (an autism spectrum disorder) who believes that a key that was left by his father held the key to another piece of his father.  It took him on an adventure so daring for such a young boy, that it was awe inspiring.  He feared losing his father if he did not follow this path which led him to approach over 600 strangers, appearing at each stranger's door...meanwhile, without his knowledge, his mother figured out his system and visited each of the people ahead of time to ensure her son would be safe and to explain his mission in the event fear prevented him from articulating the reason for his visit.  In the end he finds out that his mother had figured it out and he was further shocked to find that she could think like him.  The revelation prompted sharing of their individual encounters with each of those visited and a bonding and road toward healing together (rather than slipping away in isolation) took place.

 

So many are suffering private traumas, no less devastating than those of 9/11, only without the publicity and camaraderie of community.  Just like the mother in the story, however, we have a God who has gone before us, who has prepared the way and who defeated death that we might live.  Help is never further away than a whispered prayer. 

 

A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2 NIV

 

Don't miss the privilege of being used to bless another.  When you get an idea to do something for another, even if just a phone call, do it! You may be the miracle someone needs at that very moment. 

Charles Swindoll said “There is no more significant involvement in another’s life than prevailing, consistent prayer.  It is more helpful than a gift of money, more encouraging than a strong sermon, more effective than a compliment, more reassuring than a physical embrace.”

How many times do we look at a day ahead or a circumstance and try to “figure out” how we are going to make it work.  Imagine me – a creation – thinking I can even see all of the opportunities, tools, etc. available to me…. When all along the Creator Himself has told us – you have not because you ask not.  He makes all things work together for good for those who love Him.  That’s ALL things.  So while prayer is not tangible, it’s the most awesome way we can contribute to another’s well being.  God in His amazing love, power and kingdom has ALL – THAT’S EVERYTHING at His fingertips and His plans are far greater for us than we perceive or can dare to dream.

So – open your heart, mind and soul.  Close your eyes for a moment and remember your dream.  Now – lay it at His feet…. And watch with wonder as He honors each step in faith as you walk toward the dream He has given you.

Blessings upon blessings to you today… and pray!

The Clouds Appear...and there is blessing still

The day started and proceeded with overcast clouds that failed to produce the anticipated rain during the day, but as night fell....SURPRISE...a wonderful thunderstorm poured forth from the sky bringing joy, life, and encouragement!

You may be walking through a rough patch, with bad news, pain, heartbreak or betrayal swirling about you, but know that there is One who will never leave you nor forsake you...who is closer than a brother....and knows every hair upon your head. And as suddenly as the strike of lightening and boom of thunder, you are made aware that you are loved. You are surprised by love and joy that only He can supply. (reference: Hebrews 13:9, Luke 12:7)

So be that sweet note of friendship, the unexpected favorite beverage, the kind word of encouragement to those around you today! God bless you greatly!

Every time you smile at someone it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. MOTHER TERESA

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love, does not know God for God is love. 1John 4:7-8

We don't know what people around us are going through, but we can show them love with the gift of a smile.

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Last evening I was at a continuing education class for my profession and had the most wonderful encounter that resulted in meeting a new friend. We chatted during breaks and even for some time after class. She was the friend and connection I'd been praying for...someone who sought after God as I do. At the end of that very long day, I found myself energized and so very grateful for the connection.

How about you? What are the day's surprises for you that bring joy and gratitude to your heart?