I've always loved November because it reminds me of how abundantly I have been blessed by God. It's one of those months that always re-centers me on what's important as well as draws me nearer to God. I'm still working building up a year-round attitude of gratitude, but I'm thankful for gentle reminders like November which nudge me into a mindset of appreciation.
With that being said, I've added more things to the list.
1. Friendship - God has given me a true friend to replace the many "yes men" and fake friends I've kept in the past. It's interesting because in a time before these friends, I was easy going, trusting and carefree. But I allowed other people's insecurities in invade my world. I let their half-friendship become an adaptation of mine. So I'm now re-learning how to be a friend and accept true friendship. Particularly, I am thankful for my friend and brother. He keeps me grounded and makes me self aware - even at times when I don't want to be. He gets me to the finish line time and time again, after I may stumble in the race of life. I honestly believe he is heaven sent - a gift of guidance and brotherly love left behind so that I can grow to one day be in a place that God can truly use me. So I thank God for giving me what I need when I need it and didn't know it. It truly makes me desire having a more genuine relationship with others. Not too many others, but a few more outstanding individuals in this world.
2. Pops - Gosh, I miss this guy. But strangely, I feel his presence everyday. The myriad of lessons that he taught me, the walls of my own ignorance that he challenged me to tear down, the wealth of inheritance he has bequeath me through his tough love, wisdom and foresight. I absolutely could not thank him enough. I truly believe that one day, i'll be a reflection of him to the world. What a mighty man of God he was. We'll meet him again, Pops. But in the meantime, I just thank God for his amazing patience and obedience to do what he was called to do before he had to leave this earth. He planted so many seeds of greatness in such a stubborn guy like myself. And I don't mean that in a cocky way. But I am literally STANDING in God's glory for my life! I'm just so thankful to God for him. My life is dedicated to making him proud.
3. My Father - Life events separated me from him early in life. But like any boy, I've always wanted to be just like my dad. In my adult life, I've learned, not only to forgive him, but to be thankful for him being a father to me and a great father-in-law to my wife. His huge heart never ceases to astound me. And his willingness to celebrate me as his son is enough to heal the wounds of the past and create a clean slate for the future. Whenever I have children, I really want them to know and love their granddad. He's a gentle giant who will give them the world. For this, I am truly grateful.
That's all folk.
Tis the season!
