I've been thinking a lot about giving thanks. I know that many of us have the tradition on Thanksgiving to go around the table and share things we are thankful for -- and that is a wonderful and appropriate tradition to have.
Yet, that tradition, as good as it is, can become something much more vital and much more normal in our everyday lives. . . If we make it a habit.
Bill and I have stumbled onto a regular habit of gratitude, especially on our walks, of saying, "What are five things you are thankful for?" Usually I remember to ask first, so Bill begins. Sometimes he is grateful for the obvious blessings of our surroundings, sometimes for lifelong blessings, sometimes for something that might seem insignificant to others. But as he shares his thankfulness, I am reminded of things in my life to give thanks for. The longer we "play" this, the more our hearts swell up in praise and worship to our Father God, who is the Giver behind every gift.
Recently we've added another dynamic. "Name three of your favorite memories." Wow! That one has brought us both to tears at times.
When we were first married, we used to play mental games, like, "Name as many countries in Africa as possible," or "Name countries alphabetically." The advent of children changed a lot of what we talked about and how we played.
But now, as empty-nesters, I can tell you that this is the best game of all.
Give thanks, dear ones. He is waiting to hear you.
Extremely happily married since 1979, Bill and Diana Waring home schooled their three children for more than twenty years. The Waring kids were the proving grounds for all the precepts, concepts, and encouragements Bill and Diana teach--the real-life examples of the wonders of home schooling! Now, new grandparents and somewhat empty nesters, Bill & Diana travel all over the world to share the joys of loving learning, honoring one another in the family, and enjoying the journey.
