In January, my elderly father-in-law had several mini strokes and came to live with us. Though the move went smoothly, the transition has been difficult for my husband, daughter, and me. It’s easy to fall into a mindset of complaining, resenting what is different, and wishing for the way things used to be. I still wage war to maintain a positive attitude many days. But today, I choose to be thankful, not only because it’s Thanksgiving, but because the great Giver of gifts deserves my praise.I am thankful that I have a home to provide shelter not only for my family, but for others as well.

I am thankful I have good health and strength to assist others in their needs.

I am thankful to have the privilege to care for a faithful saint, no matter how long or short it may be.

I am thankful for opportunities for God to refine me into pure, sparkling gold through this time.

I am thankful for a husband who is attentive and concerned for me and my needs.

I am thankful for friends who have traveled this path already and who offer much needed support and prayers.

I am thankful that my father-in-law is easy to please and appreciates every act of kindness. His sweet spirit instructs me without saying a word.

I am thankful for Arizona sunshine streaming through my windows in these winter months.

I am thankful for grown children who make me laugh and don’t judge me when I fail.

I am thankful for the little dog who nestles close and warm against my leg as I sit on the couch.

I am thankful for a car that gets me out of the house for a break or to attend to necessary errands.

I am thankful for a God who never leaves me or forsakes me.

I am thankful.

I am thankful.

I am thankful.

“Eucharisteo [giving thanks] always precedes the miracle.” Ann VosKamp, One Thousand Gifts (Zondervan, 2011, p. 35)

This Thanksgiving, look for miracles and anticipate good gifts from the Giver.

Are you walking through a difficult time? What’s one thing for which you can be thankful today?