What Are You Thankful For?

When was the last time you took time to give thanks? We say thank you every day. Whether it’s the co-worker helping in the completion of a daunting task, good service, or a thoughtful gesture from family, friend, or neighbor, we must thank them for all they do for you. It’s time to slow down and reflect on God’s blessings with the year coming to an end.

Like recent years’ past, 2023 has seen one of the most challenging years for everyone. Amid the chaos, we must take time to be thankful for what we all have. As St. Paul wrote, “In all circumstances, give thanks for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”. (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

So how do we do it? There’s a sign that is hung on my wall between the living room and dining room that reads, “Don’t just count your blessings, share them”. It has some meaning to us all.

God has blessed us with so much that we can handle. He asks us to share those blessings. Here are five things to ponder what you should be thankful for this year?

Priest

We all have that priest who inspire us to live out our faith, whether it is through his messages, actions, and the liking. That priest has a challenging task and it’s not a typical 8-hour job.

Don’t forget to thank your priest for inspiring you to live out your faith. Remember to pray for him as St. Teresa of Avila reminds us, “Behind each priest, there is a demon fighting for his fall. If we have the language to criticize them, we must have twice as much to pray for them.”

Never forget to thank a priest.

Family

We have close relatives that have meant the world to us. Some have mentored us. Others stepped in when a parent has been absent in our lives. They made us for who we are today. We can recall the memories of having ice cream on the porch during a hot summer day talking about the good and bad. At the same time, that family member gives us some wisdom to carry on throughout our daily lives. In the end, family is what shape us in the people we are meant to be.

Co-Workers

The 9-5 routine from Monday to Friday can be dull and daunting. Yet, we have that co-worker or two who help us get through the challenging day. It doesn’t hurt to thank God for bestowing upon you those that help you get through the day with a laugh, heartfelt conversation, or even just a simple greeting.

Friends

We have those who have helped us grow in virtue. We have those that build us up. The book of Sirach reminds us, “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter, He that has found one has found a treasure. There is nothing so precious as a faithful friend and no scales can measure his excellence.”

Sirach lays out a great definition of a true friend. We have those who is by our side during the good and bad. We must continue surrounding ourselves with those people who want to help us get to heaven.

Someone We Love

Whether married or dating someone who could be your potential spouse, let us never forget to thank that special someone who is helping you look towards heaven or challenge you to be a better person.

For me, I have been dating an amazing woman who has helped me. I shared our experience in a recent article that is worth reading. We hope and pray it inspires many to put God at the center of their relationship.

There is so much to be thankful for. Never take it for granted. God has given so much to count those blessings and to share it with everyone around you. Give thanks in all circumstances. Be thankful.