Why Should I Be Thankful?

Yesterday, we celebrated Thanksgiving and it was a little weird. This year I did all the cooking while my husband played in the park all day long and my son closed himself in a room playing video games.

Here I am trying to reflect on why I should be thankful?

Then as I am praying and journaling my thoughts, it hit me. I am alive. Hey, you might think that it's best being dead sometimes, but the notion of spending another day with my family was a blessing. Let me see things through God's eyes. What am I really thankful for?

1. I am thankful that I have a husband that truly loves me and my son.
2. I am thankful that in spite of all the struggles we face ~ God gives us respite.
3. I am thankful that I can see, speak, walk, and touch.
4. I am thankful that my son in spite of his disabilities can also see, speak, walk and touch even if it's differently.
5. I am thankful that I have a job. Yes, it's a blessing even though it's a difficult one.
6. I am thankful that Jesus loves me in spite of my flaws.
7. I am thankful for my supportive family and friends.
8. I am thankful for my apartment ~ even though I want a house of my own.
9. I am thankful for my car who has no handles, is 13 years old and looks it.
10. I am thankful for the internet which has made communicating with people all over the world possible.

Okay, I can go on and on.

Why Should I be thankful?
I am alive to witness the goodness of God, even though at times distractions may come my way.

A Fresh New Breeze

Today the question that keeps popping up in my head is when will I be able to catch my breath. Lately the trials in my life seem to have no end. How much can a person take before there's no more air. Seems like I am gasping, choking, and there is no hope left.

My son's violent outbursts and mental breakdowns appear to be getting worse. School has been calling both my husband and I in the middle of our jobs. Both of us walking on eggshells at work and at home.

One wrong move or one wrong saying can trigger something from a horror movie. Had to ply my hand out of my son's jaw ~ still sore from the bite. I can deal with the physical pain ~ you see that will heal. Can I learn how to breathe again?

It keeps getting worse. Again the school called and again we had to rush to pick him up. Only to find out this time it was just a verbal threat. Can this be it?

All I know is this I am praying and I am looking to the one who is my source of strength to carry me through this. I am waiting for a Fresh new breeze to come my way and this time one full of mercy and grace.