Thanksgiving is one of the most difficult times for me to celebrate with integrity. I have so much, and I find it so easy to complain about things for which most people would be extremely grateful.

I am reflecting more and more this Thanksgiving season on developing a better attitude towards and practice of Thanksgiving. Paul reminded us that we ought to “give thanks in all things.” What that really points to is an attitude of gratitude.

Someone has anonymously suggested a focus for a lot of different things during Thanksgiving. I want to share it with you:

I am thankful…

For my teenager who is complaining about doing dishes,                                                                                                                                                                          Because that means she is at home and not on the streets.

For the taxes that I pay,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Because it means that I am employed.

For the mess to clean after a party,                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Because it means that I have been surrounded by friends.

For my clothes that fit a little to snug,                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Because it means I have enough to eat.

For my shadow that watches me work,                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Because it means I am out in the sunshine.

For my lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning, and gutters that needs fixing,                                                                                                Because it means I have a home.

For all the complaining I hear about government,                                                                                                                                                                                   Because it means that we have freedom of speech.

For the parking spot I find at the far end of the parking lot,                                                                                                                                                                            Because it means I am capable of walking and that I have been blessed with transportation.

For my huge heating bill,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Because it means I am warm.

For the lady behind me in church who sings off key,                                                                                                                                                                                          Because it means I can hear.

For the pile of laundry and ironing,                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Because it means I have clothes to wear.

For weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day,                                                                                                                                                                         Because it means I have been productive.

For the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours,                                                                                                                                                                           Because it means that I am alive.

And finally I am thankful for tough times,                                                                                                                                                                                                                Because God sent Jesus who taught us that we have a loving Heavenly Father who is mindful of our every need and who will see us through every dark hour.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving – with an attitude of gratitude!