Few things test the will of individuals like stress and hardship. The old saying ‘what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger’ is often more true than most realize. I’m counting the many blessings I have this day because I have my health and the love of family and friends surrounding me. When things get tough I know I can count on them for support and prayer. I’m not one to give up very easily when thrown a challenge, but I also realize that I can’t do all the pulling by myself. I’m forever grateful to all those that choose to pull with me, keeping me from being dragged through the muck and mire and to the good Lord above who supplies me the strength to make all things possible.
I couldn’t think of a more fitting image for today’s Inkling than the oft reproduced photograph-turned-oil painting Grace by Rhoda Nyberg. One of my childhood friends had this very painting hanging in his dining room. Every time I went to his house I saw it and never gave it much thought. There are so many things that I have in my life that I’m thankful for, but many days, like that painting, I don’t really think much about it. Thanksgiving Day, to me, is a reminder to be appreciative of just how fortunate and blessed I am. So, before enjoying that bountiful Thanksgiving feast with family today, I plan to take a moment to thank God for the abundance of blessings in my life.