More Thanks
Posted by Marlene Obie on Thursday, November 26, 2009
My greatest gratitude is for all the people in my life--past and present. The greatest gift was being sent to Sunday School at an early age and discovering the unconditional, continual love of God and being part of a church family. I have no doubt that my mental and emotional survival is due to my relationship with God and all the angels that have brought into my life.
I feel particularly blessed to have been part of some special churches, always filled with people who live their faith day-to-day. Many bonds have continued over the years and become golden chains of friendship. Also, wherever I have worked I have had many colleagues whom I count as friends who were there always for me and have contributed to whatever success I have achieved. And there's family. Even when we don't think they're with us, they usually are, in some way which we understand later as we remember with lenses of forgiveness and understanding of their own struggles. So many others, mentors, teachers, leaders, friends it would take all day to list.
To my Aunt Mary, I will always remember with a full heart of thanks. Because she opened her home and love to me, I know I am the person I am. Her love and guidance through those crucial grade school years have been the core of my values and attitude.
And I give thanks for all who read this and the times I've had with you, as well as those who I may no longer be in contact with, but who helped shape my belief in myself and my ability to keep going and enjoy the trip.
Certainly not the least, I thank my children for the lessons they have taught me and still do. I am so proud of who they are and to be their mother. I credit them and their own discovery of what is important in life. I'm grateful as well for my daughter-in-law and "like-a-daughter". I'm thankful I am experiencing the joy of being a grandparent of two terrific children. I'm grateful for every additional minute I an spend with them and for the fun of helping raise Meredith.
There is another side to all in our life we can concentrate on. I prefer to dwell on the goodness, mercy, grace, laughter, tenderness.
I feel particularly blessed to have been part of some special churches, always filled with people who live their faith day-to-day. Many bonds have continued over the years and become golden chains of friendship. Also, wherever I have worked I have had many colleagues whom I count as friends who were there always for me and have contributed to whatever success I have achieved. And there's family. Even when we don't think they're with us, they usually are, in some way which we understand later as we remember with lenses of forgiveness and understanding of their own struggles. So many others, mentors, teachers, leaders, friends it would take all day to list.
To my Aunt Mary, I will always remember with a full heart of thanks. Because she opened her home and love to me, I know I am the person I am. Her love and guidance through those crucial grade school years have been the core of my values and attitude.
And I give thanks for all who read this and the times I've had with you, as well as those who I may no longer be in contact with, but who helped shape my belief in myself and my ability to keep going and enjoy the trip.
Certainly not the least, I thank my children for the lessons they have taught me and still do. I am so proud of who they are and to be their mother. I credit them and their own discovery of what is important in life. I'm grateful as well for my daughter-in-law and "like-a-daughter". I'm thankful I am experiencing the joy of being a grandparent of two terrific children. I'm grateful for every additional minute I an spend with them and for the fun of helping raise Meredith.
There is another side to all in our life we can concentrate on. I prefer to dwell on the goodness, mercy, grace, laughter, tenderness.
