Yesterday was Thanksgiving. I have so much to be thankful for this year. I am thankful for a Savior who loved me enough to lay down His life for me. I am thankful to be alive. I’m thankful to have a job that pays the bills and allows me to have a bit of fun here and there. I am thankful that I have a core group of friends and family that are unconditionally supportive, no matter what. I am thankful for my health and that I live in a time when I am able to get the medical care that I need.
Despite everything for which I have to be thankful, it is also a very difficult time. We are in the process of cleaning out my grandmother’s house. Dismantling the belongings of a loved one is difficult to say the least. When one considers the rocky relationship that I had with her, it is even more difficult. I regret the time I didn’t spend with her, though I know that in the last two years of her life, I was there with her when she needed me most…up to literally her last breath. There are times when I miss her deeply. There are times when I am very angry with her. There are times when I am indifferent.
All in all, 2012 has been a rough year. Yet, somehow, I find myself thankful for the challenges. I have been able to overcome things that I never thought possible. I’m kicking off 2013 with a 5K, so I’m starting off on a positive note. On January 2, I’ll be even more thankful to be alive…unless my heart explodes when I run…lol…totally kidding…I’ll be thankful for life AND ibuprofen.
Good luck with the 5k, and remember when the going gets tough, keep calm and pray on…..
Wishing you and those you hold close a peaceful Christmas and all the very best for 2013.
Ian