Thankfulness and Praise

Our lives are shaped with each and every loved one that came and/or left before us. We may have been young, naïve, or disconnected to truly listen and learn from all they have said and done.  If those words and lessons were not relevant then, they will appear later being a reflection or guide.

It is often after our loved ones go home, regret begins to settle in our hearts and mind. Regrets of how we so little expressed our love, thankfulness and appreciation for them.  Our hearts cry out for that one last moment to do so.  

Although mine seldom appear in my dreams and their actions show me no disappointment, still my flesh yearns to touch theirs, my ears yearn to hear their voice, and my hands yearn to hold theirs while creating their arts. 

Therefore, I tell you it is not only on this Thanksgiving Day, but every day, we must express our thankfulness and praise to our loved ones here with us today. For the person they are, their gifts of love and life, and the words of wisdom and teachings they give.  No matter how small, they are a significance in our life and being.   Pray that you will hold no regrets in future days and continue to share the words and lessons they have brought before you.  Further, give almighty praise and thanks to the Lord above for   "He established them forever and ever; he gave them a duty which shall not pass away."  (PS 148:6).

Let's Celebrate

                                               

Each year on this very day an unforgettable occurrence happened.  It’s not anything that is written in the history books, plastered across the news or newspaper headlines.  An occurrence known to only those who were there in the beginning and those I have come to known and personally expressed to. An occurrence that happens every year on the same day in your life too. 

                IT’S A BIRTHDAY!  

Some of you may now think of it as just another day.  But it actually is wonderful day whether you choose to shout it out or keep it quiet.

I, myself, am at an age where I am over the thrills and frills of the traditional birthday celebrations with cake, presents, balloons and parties.  But today, I’m not celebrating my age, I’m celebrating MY LIFE.  I admit my life has not been perfect or always happy and pleasant.  Is anyone’s?  We all have struggles, disappointments and low times.  But I am choosing to celebrate what I have learned, accomplished, became, and where I am being guided.  I am celebrating with the most precious gift I received this morning…another day to try again and do my best.

Two weeks ago, someone asked a dear friend who shares a February birthday and matured in 80 years what her secret to staying so young was. Her answer “It’s all in your attitude and choices. It’s choosing the Lord”.  I say Amen!

So whenever your special day is, celebrate not your age but YOUR LIFE!   

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate. Oprah Winfrey (courtesy of brainyquote.com)