The month of November it seems like all we see, especially on Facebook, is “thanks for” daily posts. (At least, once the elections are over.) There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. It is good to be thankful. It is good to look at the positives in our lives and not just the negatives. But why do we only show our gratitude one month of the year? Shouldn’t we be thankful all year long?
There are so many things we take for granted. For instance, a few friends of mine are dealing with courts and custody things. Some of them are perfectly civil but they still don’t get to have their child all the time. I am so thankful that I am not having to deal with that type of situation. My heart just goes out to those moms and dads who have to deal with custody issues.
I have a roof over my head that only kind of leaks but holds in the heat pretty well. But instead of being thankful, I complain about the the 1970s yellow tub, layers of paint, paneling, and wallpaper in all the rooms, and the lack of storage space.
I get annoyed by the frustrations that ice and snow causes but I forget how beautiful it can be. And how much joy it brings my daughter to play in the snow.
Then there is my daughter who every night at bedtime, she thanks God for things. She always thanks Him for Mommy and Daddy, the kitties, and her friends. But she usually throws some random things in there like her pink ear muffs and her flower nightlight.
So here is my challenge for you (and myself). Instead of posting thankfulness posts on social media every day this month, get a journal and write down one thing you are thankful for each and every day. Small, big, doesn’t matter. Really think about it. Focus on those things you never thought about before. I’m wondering how much of our attitudes will change when we stop taking things for granted and focus on the positives in life.
Here are a couple of verses on being thankful to help us with our year of thankfulness. May we remember that we should be thankful in all things and all year long.
Holly {While I'm Waiting...} says
Great idea! This month my kiddos made a list of things they are thankful for and each day we have used one of those things and blessed someone else. It’s been a great way to be intentionally grateful and also show thanksgiving. I agree with you – I love to hear my kids pray (especially the youngest one) and all the many, many things she is thankful for! I’m sure it’s music to God’s ears! Have a wonderful day!
Julie @ Loggers Wife says
I love how you are using them to bless other people. What a great idea!
JES says
Very true Julie! A heart of thankfulness should be a daily sentiment… It goes well with the counterpart of contentedness which is likewise important. Thank you for joining us each week on the Art of Home-Making Mondays. I am thankful for readers like you 🙂
Kaylene Yoder says
I like the idea of a thankfulness journal! What a great tool to get our perspective more heavenly minded.
Thank you for linking to Grace & Truth. I look forward to reading more from you this week!
Kaylene Yoder recently posted…How I’m Learning to Appreciate His Leadership