"Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let the pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place."
-- Unknown
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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Tis the season to be thankful

Well, it’s finally Wednesday…it’s just not the right time of Wednesday. But, a few more hours (which I’m sure will fly by) and I’ll be on my way to Ridgeland.

I realized this morning how dependent I’ve become on Wednesday’s writing prompts. With it being Thanksgiving this week, I can understand why Kat wouldn’t want (or have time) to read all of them. But seriously…I have to come up with my own post today?

I guess I’ll be a little cheesy here and do an “I’m thankful for” list. While it might not be the most creative idea, it does seem to fit the season.

I’m thankful for all of the people in my life who love and support me. Yes, Mama and I had our moments of hell throughout my adolescence, but at the end of the day, I knew she loved me. Not everyone can say that. At least I had a mom to argue with, you know? And I am so thankful that we finally understand each other after many years of fussing.

Yes, my parents got divorced when I was young, but I am so thankful that they both found someone else to make them happy.

I’m thankful that I have a step-dad who has NEVER treated me like a step-daughter (he always said the word "step" implied a lesser love.) He has always been there for me and Mama, and has sacrificed so much for me.

Daddy and I didn’t get to see each other much over the years, but I’m so thankful that I always knew he was just a phone call away, willing to hear me out and calm me down. He used to be my safe harbor, when the arguments with Mama got too heated, but I know now that he is much more than that. I'm so thankful that I feel closer to him now than I ever have before.

I am thankful that he found my step-mom and that through all of the struggles and hardships they’ve endured, their love has grown stronger. I’m thankful that over the years, she and I have bonded and become friends. I’m so thankful that she continues to make my Daddy and my little brother so happy.

And that brings me to Chase and Sean. I am SO thankful that they are both growing up to be such wonderful young men. They each have their own special talents and such sweet, sweet hearts. Chase is so smart and creative. Although he’s still very young, I know he has a brilliant future ahead of him. Sean continues to make me so proud. He stands firm in his faith and sets a great example for those around him. I know being a teenager is tough, but he is pulling it off remarkably well.

I’m thankful for Kevin. While our relationship has been tried and doubted, he has always, always been there for me. He is truly the best friend I could ask for. He believes in me and encourages me to be the best person I can possibly be. He brightens my day and makes me smile. He endures my cranky moments and honestly likes me best in jeans and no make-up. I’m so thankful that he actually loves me for who I am. There’s no pretending.

There is so much more. How do you narrow it down to a single post? I’m thankful for my job and my home. For having food to eat and being able to pay my bills. I’m thankful for my idiot dog, who makes me smile and keeps me company.

I’m thankful for all of you who read my blog and leave me encouraging comments; for all of the friendships I’ve made with complete strangers.

I have been so very blessed.

Thank you.

9 comments:

Jenners said...

Gorgeous post! Your loved ones should feel so proud and loved. I really enjoyed reading this...and I'm planning on doing a similar post tomorrow of what I'm thankful for...it is a good exercise to do every once in a while. Makes you realize how rich life really is.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving!

Diane said...

This was beautiful... beautiful list... beautiful sentiments... beautifully written! (And worth the wait ;)

Travel safely and have a great holiday!!!

Anonymous said...

I never want to hear you say you have no talent. I'm thankful that you decided to go back and get your degree. I think you have found your calling in life. And yes, after reading today's blog you have grown up all to soon. Happy Thanksgiving! Love ya

Aunt E.

Melanie Gillispie said...

Aw! That made me all teary-eyed! It was so sweet! I loved it! I hope you have a great Thanksgiving too! Travel safe and have a good time!

Anonymous said...

H, I'm thankful for you and that we have reconnected. You are such a lovely young woman and I'm honored to be your aunt. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and give everyone a big hug from me.

I love you and I love the way you expressed your thankfulness.

AJ

Anonymous said...

Very Thankful for you too, Heathergirl!!!

Love,
M

Jen L. said...

Aw, that made me cry a little bit! Have a great Thanksgiving!

Anonymous said...

So I am turning out to be a brilliant young man, yeah right.

-little bro

meili_lo said...

i agree with Jenners... if i were on that list, i'd feel so appreciated and loved!

anyway, saw you in Jenners blogs. hope you can come by and share your thoughts and experiences on my blog.

http://shewritesyouwrite.blogspot.com/

thanks!