Giving Thanks in this Season and Stage of Life, Meeting Him Where I am at and not just where I want to be

November,December and January are always hard months emotionally for me, maybe because of shorter, dark days and unmet expectations but not complete sure if those are the only reasons. Whatever the reason He gets me through them every year. I am so thankful that God has taught me to do less during these months and be gentle with myself.

I am blown away by all that He is teaching me. I don't even know where to begin. I definitely still miss Laos and long to go back someday but in his time (Ecclesiastes 3:11) I am trying to live in the now, something I have never done very well. One way is by being thankful for what I have now!

Sometimes it is as simple as taking responsibility. For example I have learned to ask God in my prayers not to help me with my studies or other things but may I be diligent in my studies. May He bless me with understanding and comprehension of what I need to know. May instead of help has made all the difference. I am asking not demanding and expecting not complaining.

Here is a poem I wrote in my journal the other day part of a prayer but I felt like a part that needed to be shared....Hope you enjoy!

Thank you for the wind that blows me away from the storm
The breath that keeps me warm
Friends who care
Time to share
Clothes to wear
And provisions evermore
Values that succeed
Any good deed
Technology though it gives me strife
The ability to see beyond
Connect with those in need
Friends that bleed
But curse it
If I ever find
I worship it more
Than my heavenly King divine
Thanks for sacrificing your son for me
Death on the cross
To make me clean
Many are the gifts that one receives
But perhaps the biggest thanks
Is for the blessings
Unseen
Intangible gifts
Like friends and family
Trees planted in hearts
Food for the soul
The pie and its tarts
Rest in a bed
Blanketed in a coat of health
Nestled by a stove
Now that is truly wealth
Forget the money
Made from things
Remember what God gave us
And dream, dream, dream.......