However, today, instead of making a conscious effort to think about what and who I am grateful for, I was automatically and overwhelmingly grateful for the roof over my head, the 2 jobs I have that sometimes overwhelm me, and the opportunities that I am blessed to have had. A few months ago, I came back from a trip to Kenya with my eyes opened to the poverty in the world. However, today, my eyes were opened to the poverty of those just around the corner. There were so many people that we came in contact with today who were so excited to have a warm meal and others who were just looking for a warm jacket or a blanket. Today, with a high of 40, was COLD. I was slapped across the face (figuratively) with the realization that I was complaining just yesterday about how my feet were cold at work when I was inside. These people live outside in weather that is below freezing and are just thankful for a blanket.
Today, I am beyond grateful for all that God has given me. I am grateful for the roof over my head no matter how annoying my neighbors can be. I am grateful for the jobs that pay my rent and buy my groceries even when I do not want to go. I am grateful for the food that is currently sitting in the refrigerator and the kitchen after Thanksgiving dinner. I am grateful for my parents who have given me opportunities and support throughout my life. I am grateful for my brother, my cousins, and all of my other family members who I miss while I am so far away. I am grateful for old friends and new friends who I will always remember and appreciate. But, above all, I am grateful for my faith in Jesus and the comfort that He gives me on a daily basis. I am grateful for His love and mercy. I am also grateful that He provides for the homeless on the streets of Nashville and around the world by moving the hearts of His people to start these movements. We are His hands and feet, and God provides for the needy through His people.
So, while I miss my family at home, and I definitely wish that I could have spent time with them today, I hope to start a new tradition for myself in giving back. I hope to spend at least a portion of the holiday giving to those who are less fortunate than myself even if only for the selfish reasons that it brought me joy to see the smile on those people's faces and it gave me a grateful heart that I hope to keep throughout this holiday season and beyond. I can honestly say that although I am nine hours from home and family, today was the best Thanksgiving I can remember having.
