Personally, I think moms invented the term multi-tasking. It is indeed possible to stir batter, hip-balance a cranky baby, talk on the phone, let the dog out, and carry on a perfectly logical, even engaging, conversation at the same time.
And hopefully, whether Thanksgiving dinner, that test of culinary prowess, or any meal, or major family gathering, those pesky moments of panic will be less a test of patience than we anticipate. We’ve got this!
We’re wired to accomplish such…..
Day 19
And with an attitude of gratitude, God guided me through dating and courtship, helping me develop the character list my future spouse must possess, and then sending me the perfect person to complete me. He is a godly man, and Christ has been the center focus of our relationship from day one. We met in church. We developed our relationship as church ministry opportunities opened for us. He is logical-mathematical, I am verbal-artistic-creative. We love classical music, and…..
Day 18
I express my attitude of gratitude that I can read and write, that I can expand my world through vicariously reading about others who have lived life. I can study the Scriptures. What a privilege. I think of girls in the world who are forbidden education. What a pity. Those who never think about the loss of these cannot possibly understand my attitude of gratitude. It is immense.
I am indebted to the teachers, mentors, counselors, family members,…..
Day 17
I delighted in Mrs. O’Rourke’s discipline in teaching me journalistic style, although I have struggled to forgive her for telling me, “Now, Betty June, I know you want to be a reporter, but only men can do that job. You’d be a great teacher!” She was right, I was a great teacher, but she quashed my dream. What I learned, I taught. My students won writing awards and distinction, and with an attitude of gratitude, I thank my…..
Day 16
I have an attitude of gratitude that several teachers and others encouraged me to write. My school years were filled with opportunities for which I am thankful, and teachers who saw promise and shaped my voice. I fell in love with words in Mrs. Meyer’s class. I loved debate when Miss Gorman and Mr. Sullivan helped me manipulate arguments, write rebuttals, and see the essence of a topic. Today, I remember the teachers and mentors who guided me,…..
Day 15
Now, upon reflection, I realize with my attitude of gratitude, that childhood experiences serve a greater purpose. I have empathy for and special recognition and love for those who may be physically or mentally challenged in some way. I’ve always given them an extra measure of encouragement—those things I felt lacking when I so wanted to know I could achieve in spite of difficulties.
God just filled me with things other than physical or athletic beauty and prowess. …..
Day 14
The challenges and difficulties of life change in each decade.
It’s been my experience that crises in my life have not been as drastic as some that others have experienced. Yes, childhood physical difficulties like three operations for a seven-year-old, bullying by playmates and “that’s too bad” comments from adults at the patches over my right eye, the one that could actually see, and glasses on my three-year-old tiny face, did affect me. I remember “failing” the eye…..
Day 13
When I daily, even hourly, commit myself to the Lord’s purposes, I discover strength I do not know I possess, and find joy in carrying the burdens of others He sends to me in chance encounters or planned relationships. I find satisfaction in seeing Scripture come to life in very real terms as I live life with an attitude of gratitude.
I have become an intercessor, a prayer warrior, one who supplicates, prays for the needs of others……
Day 12
With an attitude of gratitude, I have learned through the college of hard knocks that the world does not revolve around my little sphere of influence. I’m glad I’ve learned that lesson. I should say, I am learning that.
As aging occurs, I find less strength of my own. Everything takes more time and energy than it used to. I need to write lists now to remember dates, things-to-do, prescriptions, directions. Coping mechanisms.
It’s God’s way, mixed with…..
Day 11
November 11th and other times as well, we remember those who sacrificed everything they had, their time, their strength, their dignity, their very selves, and some, their lives and limbs, for our freedom. May we give them our thanksgiving and reflect on their service.
Then, may we think spiritually of the very Son of God, who came from heavenly beauty, peace, and the very Presence of our Father God, to be born in a smelly stable, scratched…..