Thoughts on Thankfulness

So, I initially began this blog in September. Frequent bouts of distraction kept me from posting anything worthwhile but now, I fully intend on utilizing this little piece of e-space.

For my new, first blog in The Amber Room, I would like to discuss the necessity of embracing the attitude of thankfulness. (Tis the season.) I learned a rather difficult lesson about life in October, when my husband's best friend tragically lost his wife. I distinctly remember seeing this lovely, young woman (only a bit older than myself) lying in a casket while her husband and newborn son stood only feet away, encompassed by grief. And I realized in that moment that I had never been really, truly grateful for my life. I had taken so many things for granted. I complained about useless things and allowed the small stuff to stress me out and induce major chocolate binges. I had been inflicted with the self-pity of turning 30 (which I will do on November 17!). Crystal would never have another birthday. She wouldn't be there to watch her son grow up. She would never again rest in the embrace of her husband.

I decided right then, that I needed to be thankful. I needed to thank God for His blessings upon my life. I needed to thank my husband and family for their support of my life endeavors, for their constant love. I needed to thank my friends for always being there for me, even if the miles separate us. I needed to savor the beauty of each day (despite the weather!) and take time to enjoy and ponder the little things in life. And now, I am putting it to practice.

Today, I watched three sparrows perch and flutter about the naked limbs of a sleepy poplar. I listened to the crisp wind stir the golden and crimson leaves upon the sidewalk. I inhaled the sweet, buttery scent of autumn in the air and made plans to star gaze from my porch, cider in hand. Life is good and we should be thankful. So, be sure to thank someone in your life for being a friend, for being kind, for spending time with you. We never know how long we have been given on the earth, but we can surely make the most of that time and embrace thankfulness.

'Til I Write Again,
Amber