Thanksgiving?

As Thanksgiving approaches I find myself looking back over this year, and I've got to tell you, it's been a pretty crap year.

I've had medical problems, resulting in a staggering number of bills that go along with it.  I've had to make the decision to leave my church of 17 years and find a new place to worship.  I have gained weight. My depression and anxiety are worse than they have been in years.

When I think about all of that, and more, I could choose to listen to the voices that call me a loser; a quitter; a failure... but I don't.

I have a family who loves and supports me.  I have friends who encourage and strengthen me.  Heck, I even have my dogs here to give me a reason to get up every morning - they have to be taken out, fed and watered, and they don't care if I feel up to it or not! All these people (and animals) love me just for being me.  I can count on them all to pull me up, and out of my own head.

Even more than all of that, I have a God who calls me redeemed.  He calls me his child, his friend, his chosen. He literally lives inside me, propelling me forward when I feel like I cannot go on.

I may still have a long row to hoe before I am back to full health both mentally and physically (I am taking active steps to improve both).  It may take me a while to find a new place to worship- a place where I fit in and I feel comfortable, and loved by the people there, but I know that through all of it, God is with me.  He encourages me, tells me I am going to be okay - that he has me.

I have to tell you without, my family, my friends, my dogs and my God, I would never be able to make it, much less find something to be thankful for daily, but I am blessed with all of that, and more, and for that I give thanks for the bounty that is my life.