Rambling thoughts…

I miss the traditional Thanksgivings of my childhood — extended family gathered at my grandparents’ house — abundance of food, kids, laughter, and noise. Football on the TV in the living room, most of the moms chatting in the kitchen, most of the cousins running around like crazy people in the yard until we were called inside to wash up or help set the tables.  

The warmth and love of those far-off celebrations stretch across the abyss of time and wrap me in their comfort and memory.

My holiday celebrations lately have felt sadly lacking. Maybe because I’m no longer one of the kids who gets to just run around and play or perhaps because I’m no longer the hostess who gets to provide the feast for the family. I’m the single, elderly relative living in a small apartment with limited time off for celebrating.

 At least those are the excuses I’ve given myself. 

This is my first Thanksgiving following my “Summer of Self-Care” journey of renewal that the Lord initiated in me last spring. So, after reflecting on my emotions surrounding Thanksgiving, I’ve made a decision. I will no longer allow feelings of nostalgia and change to determine my enjoyment of this holiday season. I will no longer be depending (as I have in past years) on the presence of a significant other in my life to make the holiday a blessing. 

I will intentionally acknowledge that in every season of life the Lord provides blessings for which we can be thankful. I will focus on the “what is” not on the “what used to be” or “what might be.” I will choose to be present in the moment and to be a blessing to the ones with whom I am celebrating.

And for next year — I choose to have Thanksgiving at my house — whatever that may look like then! 

May the Lord bless you and yours as you celebrate Thanksgiving this year! 💜