Gratitude comes in many forms, simple things really.
» Like the joy I feel in church when folks wave from across the sanctuary after a long absence.
» The ability to really notice a setting sun as a dear forever friend drives you home from Memphis after visiting your spouse in the Med. Being able to laugh at the messed-up detour signs on the same ride but having sense to follow our nose to get home.
» The first time I go into our newly-opened Dollar General and see fruits and veggies and hear gospel music in the background, the aisles all newly-stocked and clean.
» Having friends that call and check on us, just because, and follow up time and again with more inquiries.
» Friends that can listen to you when you have lost your words and they know how to finish your sentence.
I’m grateful for the Christmas tree I put up that Chester got to see before he fell and had bones sticking out 4 inches from his ankle. Truly, truly grateful for the prayers and family members working to get Chester back home close enough for visits and the effect this has had on his spirits and even pain level.
I’m just one of those truly grateful persons, because mostly I think I feel that I either don’t expect it, or I’m used to doing for myself.
As evidence is this last gratitude memory I will never forget: My 18-year-old self was in Iowa at my first ever garage sale. I had $10 left from my $151 welfare check and wanted to buy a nice stroller for my brother. The stroller was exactly like the one my mom had bought for my son. There was also this flat handmade black and white stuffed dog that is printed onto fabric you cut out and sew together, with a 10-cent price tag. I kept looking at it but put it back because I didn’t have 10 cents. When I paid for the stroller, the lady gave me the stuffed dog for my son. That was in 1970, and that act of kindness fills me with gratitude still.
We are all blessed in this holiday season. Be still and spend the time you need to remember how blessed you are.
