ImageChef.com Poetry Blender
This morning I have been reflecting, on the last year, all the ups and downs. Last Thanksgiving was a painful one, being the first one just after my mother's suicide. My husband and I retreated to his large and wonderful family in Illinois and they took excellent care of me. Giving me simple things to do to keep me occupied and loving me unconditionally, they are marvelous people! Through the next few months I was entrenched in the pain of my loss and the never ending (or so it seemed) litany of legal issues surrounding my mother's estate and property. All the while God gave me comfort in the form of friends, family and even strangers, helping me through. This last year has also seen us become empty nesters, when Chris moved out to go to college and then recently our oldest, Josh announced his impending marriage to a wonderful girl whom we adore! In between all of those things the market went to hell and life as a Realtor was quite the roller coaster ride. I watched many get off the ride completely and still others who reinvented themselves according to the need in their area. I started working with a coach and did some reinventing myself~ ;.)
Suffice it say, it has been a year full of emotion; anger, denial, fear, pain and joy! Today I am remembering that gratitude is the essential part of a happy Thanksgiving, and indeed any happy day. Knowing I am blessed and lucky, regardless of the events currently unfolding(some good, some not what I want at all) and what I may think of them. Today, I know God is with me and I choose to be grateful instead of sad or afraid or even weary. No matter the circumstance, there is always something to smile at if I am willing to look!
Today smile at a stranger, let someone in your lane in front of you on the freeway, wave at your neighbor or office mates as you go by and remember that gratitude is contagious and can be spread, one heart to another!
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone in The Rain! May your hearts and bellies be full this day and all the days to come!
Vanessa Stalets
615-957-6333
RE/MAX Elite
615-661-4400
Your Nashville, Brentwood and Franklin TN homes and real estate for sale source!
Comments(18)