Giving Thanks

Ever wonder why things happen in your life and not the "other guy" or why people come and go and others stay for the "duration"? I have thought about this question many times but just recently, I have come to the realization that life just happens. None of us trudging through our "earthly home" will have an answer to this question, in my opinion, which would satisfy my soul. Though I have not recently lost anyone through death or separation, several in our community have lost loved ones and friends recently. Whether this loss is due to death, military deployment, job relocation or some other loss, the hurt of the emptiness possesses similar qualities. We are not promised a second chance in passing through life so we should make the best of it the first time around, correct?

During the 43 years of my life on this earth, I have been blessed with so much and so many that I wish to give thanks today and everyday. I have said many times to myself, friends and family that I do not wish to lose anyone else that I love, which I know is not a reality, but if I were to pass through this life tomorrow, I would be ready. You see, friends may come and go in some people's lives but I seem to hold on to close acquaintances and as I grow older, they become increasingly important to me. Personally, I believe I have many different types of friends for various reasons.

First, I have my family that is in the foreground of my friendship circle. Not all daughters may have the relationship I have shared with my parents and in-laws but when I really need a good shock of reality, I can always count on my parents to deliver those knockout punches. I always rely upon them to remind me of where I come from and how I was molded into my personality.

Second, my children, and husband are another lifeline to my sanity and happiness. My children and I have suffered through a loss together, in the death of their father, and my husband just came along and "hugged" us all to help make a happier life together. Others less fortunate than us may never experience true love or even to be loved by another. Still others will not share in the joy a child brings to a home. Of course, they will not share in the sometimes heartache, destruction, and frustration that can come with the blessing! As in Garth Brooks' "The Dance," if we miss the pain we must also miss the dance.

Third, my "everything will be okay" or "everyday" friends keep me smiling and keep me going. I have a handful of very close friends, and a couple in particular that bring a sense of calm and appreciation to me daily. I have no need to mention names because they know whom I reference. Do any of you think about how you act in the presence of some friends or how your persona changes with the friendship? For some I am the court jester, others I am the social worker and yet others I am the one that is nearly the same, day in, day out, and they know they can depend upon me. One thing that remains a constant for me is the commitment that someone is willing to make to keep friendships over all obstacles. At times, we all are caught up in our own circumstances and it takes a tragedy to make us realize our gratitude. Take a little time and give thanks because we never know what our neighbor, co-worker, or friend might be fighting to overcome. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone to help a friend in need.

Lastly, but most importantly is my relationship with the only "friend" that leads and guides me in my daily efforts. Country music star Josh Turner sings in his song "Long Black Train" about our "victory in the Lord" and "clinging to the Father and his holy name." Having been raised in a Christian home, my belief affords me the gift of thanks and blessings from the Father, not just on Thanksgiving but each day.

Happy Thanksgiving.

K Mullins-Lamb