It is a good spiritual practice to recall and acknowledge with gratitude the gifts which we have in our lives. I want to do this in a way that doesn’t sound like bragging because the reality is that I have had very little to do with the blessings that have come to me in this life.  

I have made so many mistakes and half-starts but each time I have been lifted up and placed back on the right track. I have been motivated to work and put one foot in front of the other; taking life one day at a time. Yes, these are time-worn sayings, and they have real meaning for me.  

That rescuer was not my mother or father, not my family or my husband but my God-the one who loves me unconditionally. The freely given gift of grace kept me afloat during times of sadness and stress. I am so happy that I knew enough to accept that grace and trust that the Lord was there always. 

So here is my list, in no particular order:  

1. My God-I am grateful for the love and teachings that I received as a child that carried through my life. Not the specific dogmas which can be off-putting and confusing, but the teaching that God loves His children no matter what they do. I only had to ask for forgiveness to feel whole again. 

2. My Family-each and every one of the large boisterous loving family that I was born into; from my grandmother who made me stop biting my fingernails to the newest members of the family who live in California, and I haven’t even met yet. This includes my wonderful in-laws who helped with my life education. I love each one with an intensity that is sometimes scary. 

3. Friends Along the Way-too many to list and acknowledge. Each one has a special place in my heart. Each one has opened a new chapter in my life and assisted with my living education. 

4. The freedom to learn and live in a nation that allows change, innovation, differences, and creativity.  

5. Music and the opportunity to grow in appreciation and knowledge of it. 

6. My Faith community and the support that it provides to all its members, especially those in need of love and acceptance. 

7. Vermont-I am so grateful that God led me to a small Catholic women’s college in Vermont at the tender age of 18 because there I met and married the best man in the world. His support through many valleys and over mountain tops has assisted God’s grace in my life. Here I will also include my two precious sons as they will always be a part of the Vermont story. 

8. I’m also grateful for my car and the ability to drive easily and anywhere. Does that sound too worldly? It’s true, I am very grateful to have a car and I didn’t have anything to do with getting it. 

For this Thanksgiving Season, my prayer is that you will realize the unconditional love that God has for you. Yes, God loves you unconditionally and has grace to give you. Grace that will save your forever life. 

Terri