Thankful for people with opinions!

I think I feel the swish of people stepping back from this post. Oh boy, really? Do I really want anybody's opinions? Sure! The other side of that card though might be that I'd like to be able to express mine as well. It's interesting how folks have their opinion, but seem less interested in hearing mine. I appreciate people who have ideas, opinions and are willing to think. There is a wonderful art to listening, processing and appreciating (not always agreeing) the thinking of others.

Thankful for music

I cannot imagine my life without music! Several times a day, I break out into song for something. (vocal or on the harmonica) My students are used to it by now. I saw a video this evening with a whole group of people doing the jazziest rhythm with cups. I began to imagine my class out sitting out in our hallway rockin' with that kind of rhythm. What a hoot! I also read about the joy of singing The Doxology. I can't tell you how many times I've stood with friends to sing this song a cappella and we've belted out four part (plus) harmony. Now I'm watching the CMA Awards. Wow . . . not what I remember of country music. I remember my mom practicing with students for Solo and Ensemble contests. I remember competing in them as well. I wasn't as fond of the competition - vocally or instrumentally. I just liked the music! I even remember a few times when a group of us were singing songs to God and I heard additional voices joining in - many more than were present at the time. Yep, I know sounds crazy. Truth is, others heard them too. Guess you had to be there to have an opinion on that. Truly . . . I cannot imagine my life with out music!

Thankful for sleep tonight . . .

On this Election Night I have mixed emotions. In my teaching practice, my students learn about the passion and diligence of the Founding Fathers as they separated from England and wrote a governing document that still stands today. Yes, it's been changed over time and is even interpreted differently that the original Founders might have intended, but one can't deny the fervor and risk in the original task done. After all of the work of the Declaration of Independence, Ben Franklin summed the situation up frankly by saying, "We either hang together or we hang separately!" I often wonder how they slept at night? I am thankful as I lay my head down tonight for assurance that I will be able to sleep. I will be rested by morning time. I am thankful that God will help my mind be in perfect peace as my  mind is stayed on Him. Good night, friends. Sleep well!

Thankful for my Job

Almost ten years ago, I heard a new direction calling me. Interestingly enough, I was not sure which direction! I changed my work situation and found myself working at a craft store and then a propane company. I met quite the variety of people! It was a great learning experience. During the latter job, I was going to school at night. My writing skills were awakened as well as my heart for learning. I forgot I loved learning so much. Right after graduation (for the second time), I found a profession that challenged me to use all the skills I acquired for many years. Could I do it? Could I tolerate little kids? Adults are much easier to teach. (snicker) Honestly, what a change of mind I have had. My job has given me such an opportunity for learning and growing. I am surrounded by people who generally love what they do. (There are some days . . .) For living in one town over 30 years, I thought I knew many people. Just get in different circles and it's amazing who I've met. My job has opened quite the world for me. I have met the most amazing families. I am thankful for my job!

Thankful for a Place

In recent years, I have walked in unfamiliar places. Am I changing and where exactly do I fit? Where is my place? Then I remembered I have been "placed" in the Beloved (Jesus). It strikes me that wherever I go and whatever I do, I have a "place". Times change and circumstances change. My "place' will not be shaken. How thankful I am!

I am thankful for Hope that is within me. There will always be challenges. I don't have to rest on my own hope. Isaac Watts, who wrote the lyrics to Joy to the World, also penned a song that comes to mind today. "Our God our help in ages past, our Hope for years to come. Our Shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home."

Thanks to God

I am thankful to God who sent His Son to redeem me. I am accepted - not perfect. My life is about what is before me not just what I have done or where I have been. It is God who works in me both to will and to do of His good pleasure.