By By Doug Chandler My Turn
My son just completed a school assignment in which he had to write what he was thankful for. He, like many 10-year-olds, listed as many things as possible. But how many of those things was he really thankful for? Were they just filler needed to make his two -page requirement?
I wonder the same thing about adults. We are often asked what we are thankful for but do we really think about our answers? We say we are thankful but are we really?
My father was forced to retire early from the ministry and is now completely bedridden. He doesn't let that get his spirits down nor has it broken his faith or tarnished his love of God. He continues to be a witness to all who come in contact with him.
During a recent visit I watched him and began to think of things I am truly thankful for. Here are just a few.
I am thankful for Godly parents. I am thankful that when the sun rose this morning everyone I love is still here with me. I am thankful that when it was time to get out of bed, I was able to get out of bed. I am thankful that we both have to rush off to work rather than read through the classifieds. I am thankful that the tire could be patched rather than replaced. I am thankful for more friends that are a positive influence on me than a bad influence. I am thankful for a wife that understands the long hours I spend in front of a computer (I love you!!). I am thankful for a God that loves a not so perfect person.
If you have something to be thankful for like me why not come join us at 6 p.m. for a community Thanksgiving service Sunday Nov. 23 at the Atmore First United Methodist Church.. We will be joined in fellowship by First Baptist, First Presbyterian, St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic and Trinity Episcopal Churches. We will have a combined choir and a special offering will be taken for the Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry.
Begin the holiday season now by looking around you and realizing what you have and what you should be thankful for. My hope is that if you can't come and be thankful with us, you will find time to be thankful in your own special way.
Doug Chandler is a
technologies project manager for Z-tel Communications.