If you are joining in for the first time this week, be sure to read Part 1, where we reflected on the past 12 months. We took the time to write down and remember the many joys of the past 300+ days with our families.
The next step- say Thank You
Here, in America, we have an annual time of thanks as we celebrate Thanksgiving.
On Thanksgiving, every year our family gathers in a circle for each person to share 1 or 2 things that they are thankful for. Our answers are similar to one another- “I’m thankful for my family, my health, my home, etc”
This time I want you to really think hard about the people who have affected your life. The people that stepped into your world and you have never been the same. The person that introduced you to your spouse, the teacher who believed in you, the pastor that faithfully taught you to study the Word. The neighbor that looked out for you and made sure you were okay.
Look back through the events of this year.
What people stand out in your mind?
Who are the key people that made your accomplishments and celebrations of 2012 possible?
Who are the people in your life that it would be easy to take for granted?
1. Create a list.
Name every person that comes to mind that you are thankful for.
Jot down their names and the reason you are thankful for them.
2. Pray a heartfelt prayer of thanks for each person on your list.
Be specific in naming the reason you are thankful for them this year.
3. Put action to your feelings. Express your gratitude to them in some tangible way.
Send a letter, call them on the phone. Express to them your thanks and why.
I would guess that most people have no idea the impact they have had on you.
Hearing that you are thankful for them and why, would rock their world.
But here’s the incredible part.
Your commitment to giving thanks not only will rock their world, it will rock yours too.
Include your children.
Have them make lists too. Pray with them. Help them express their gratitude.
There are many things we can do this time of year, but one of the most impacting, life-changing moments you can experience is the moment you stop to show appreciation to someone who cared for your enough to share their life with you.
“But I don’t have time!”
This will take time. True!
However, your time is the most precious gift you can give this Christmas season.
Who will be the first person on your list?
thank you photo credit: the Italian voice via photopin cc
[…] Next week we will talk about Part 2: A Heart of Thanks For 2012. […]