Previously posted in 2017.
I sat down Monday night and started writing. What ended up on the paper I shared at the end of today's show. A few folks emailed and asked me to share what I wrote. So, here it is...
Thanksgiving.
Two words – “Thanks” & “Giving” blended, but each word singularly expressing a thought which evokes outflow.
More than any other time in my life we seem to be focused on “inflow” or self…what’s in it for me, why do I have to do this or that and it's not healthy. I know that for some, this time of year is a time of loneliness. Memories – some good, some sad – come flooding back. I know it’s not easy.
My perspective is that there is a God. So, no one is ever alone. But, you may still “feel” alone.
The best remedy for each of us, whether you are alone or with family and friends (and it is still possible to feel alone in a room full of people), is to hit the reset button. To keep no record of wrongs. To wipe the slate clean. To start afresh and anew.
So, I will circle back to where I started…
Thanks – Giving.
Each and every one of us has reason to give thanks. Each person has had his or her times of hardship and even heartbreak. Still, you and I are here…breathing…living for another day. Find something, anything to be thankful for and take a moment or two and reflect on those things with a grateful heart. Then, find a way to create some outward flow in your life. You know a pond with no flow of water becomes stagnant and over time…well, it’s not very pretty.
Find some way, any way to give to others…be the person who is giving.
You and I were created to be a conduit…to speak into other people’s lives words of encouragement. To offer a hug, a smile, a silent prayer.
This season…starting this week…let’s be people with a grateful heart, who offers “Thanks” and combine that with the powerful force of considering others more important than ourselves…to be a “Giving” people – individually & collectively.
Thanks…Giving…
I think we will be happy…
Happy, Thanksgiving.