Thanksgiving-giving thanks for the abundance that we are blessed with. First there are the things that I am deeply profoundly grateful for: The Savior, His church, President Monson and his counselors, the apostles, the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith, eternal families. And then there are those in my immediate family, Darin, who mostly makes me laugh and only occasionally cry. Darin works hard and has been blessed to provide for us. I love his cooking and that he does the dishes. I'm grateful for the righteous choices he has made in his life. I am grateful that he works by my side and shoulders family responsibilities with me.
Bridger, who keeps me honest and humble. Who has stretched me and not allowed a bit of hypocrisy to remain hidden. That loves so much with all his heart. That forgives me when my imperfections hurt him. That forgives others and tries so hard to be better. For all the work and sweat and tears in this earth life. For being the oldest and an example to Wyatt. For always giving so much to Wyatt and loving him. For an honest heart that always wants to do what is right.
And to Wyatt, who keeps me on my toes and helps me to remember how to find happiness in the simplest of ways. Who is passionate and excited and explores everything with a zest I have long since forgotten. For the "I sorry's" for the hugs and kisses and tender heart. For recognizing sadness in others and a willingness to try to help heal. For the late night laughs and the tickle wars.And I am also grateful for religious freedom. For America and the founding fathers that sacrificed their freedom and happiness in giving their time, talents and life so that I could enjoy and live the dream they dreamed. For those sacrificing now for my freedom. For righteous people who are striving to live the best they know how. For smiles from passer-bys, conversations from sweet un-known children, for forgiving drivers, for loving neighbors and for our primary children that I get to be with every Sunday.
I am also grateful for practical things that make my life easier, heat that turns on with the touch of a button, indoor plumbing, sewage treatment plants, washers and dryers, microwaves, ovens, refrigerators, freezers, automobiles, insulation, home structures, clean water, clothes, Costco, packaged food, readily available fruit and vegetables, dishwashers, computers and gloves.
Even with all of the talk about the recession and how we are suffering, we are still surrounded by so many things to be grateful for this year. One of the ways we have been asked to show our gratitude is to give. We can ALL help, one way is to participate in the food drive that will be church-wide December 5th-please put out some cans for those that need some extra help-by small and simple things are great things brought to pass!
