It is November, and I am thankful for all things in my life. I often take this month to to take a special accounting of all the blessings in my life, whether they be large and small, and I share them each day. However, this year my heart feels heavy. I still remind myself everyday, I am just finding it hard to share when so many are suffering.

My hope in the future is waning and it seems everyday there is more and more discourse, more incidents that indicate we as a society are in trouble. I cannot escape the sense of foreboding or shut out the noise, the hate, or the insanity that I am bombarded with everyday, as it seems it is now every moment of everyday.

Truly, lately, I feel as the old hymn says…”This world is not my home.” and daily I am telling myself that, ” I am just passing through.”

Today two posts from the past expressions of gratitude brought me some peace. They reminded me that even in all the chaos around me and in the world, there is still so much to be thankful for. I can still count my blessings and be thankful when others are struggling. I do so with a humble heart knowing that I have done nothing to deserve even one blessing or even my next breath.

The first post follows this simple instruction from Psalm 69 says, “…praise the name of God with Song”… meaning to worship. When I sing and praise God it lifts my spirit, it eases my deep sighs and fill my heart with gratitude.

“I will praise the name of God with song, And exalt Him with thanksgiving.” Psalm 69:30 NASB

“I have learned that in every circumstance that comes my way, I can choose to respond in one of two ways: I can whine or I can worship! And I can’t worship without giving thanks. It just isn’t possible. When we choose the pathway of worship and giving thanks, especially in the midst of difficult circumstances, there is a fragrance, a radiance, that issues forth out of our lives to bless the Lord and others.” ~Nancy Leigh DeMoss

The second post was more personal, of all the gifts I have received, my sons are among the greatest. They are unique and each one touches my heart in different way.

“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” ~ Marcel Proust

This picture, taken in 1999, makes me smile each time I see it and I see it everyday. These three people are the ones that make me happy and bring joy to my heart.

It is November, a month for giving thanks. I thank God for everything because He has given me Everything.