Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Day 29: Thankful Today for The Water Cooler Conversations

I am thankful today for the water cooler conversations. About mid afternoon when the need for a break pushes me away from my desk I land at the break room. There the room is filled with people getting coffee, tea, a fresh glass of water or a snack from the vending machine. In the midst of all the motion of acquiring… the conversations flow. They range from the usual complaints about the day to the thought-provoking discourses that cause you ponder long after you have left the room.

The latter opens my viewpoints and takes my mind of of my stresses. Actually, even the former does as well. There seems to always be someone who has it as bad if not worse. And sometimes we help each other find a solution. Or at least lend an empathetic ear, lifting the spirits of the person who was able to unload because they were heard.

Sometimes the water cooler is a place to recharge. You just have to be careful about who is there when you go.

Monday, August 29, 2011

Day 28: Thankful Today for my Program Advisor

I am thankful today for my Program Advisor. There are times when the path seems unclear or I am unsure of my capability to navigate it. She reassures me and guides me. She clears the fog and keeps me on course.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Day 27: Thankful Today for Sunday Church Services

I am thankful today for Sunday Church Services. It is a perfect way to start a new week. The sound of worship lifts my spirit as I enter the sanctuary. The environment is one of praise, all focused on Him.

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Day 26: Thankful Today for The Calm Before the Storm

As I wait for the series of storms that are predicted to hit us as a result of a hurricane off the coast I feel an odd calm in the air. The clouds are dark and moving but nothing is happening. They wait. And in their wait there is time. Time for me to get things done before the possible power outages. To run any last minute errands before the possible flooding of the roads.

It is a blessing when we have that time when faced with the other kinds of storms in our lives. That time to muster all our strength. Time to gain the needed wisdom. Time to build our faith through prayer and counsel. So that we can face the storm with grace, and poise and remain standing through the storm and once its passed. I am thankful for the calm before the storm.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Day 25: Thankful Today for a Productive Day

As the street lamps begin to flicker it sparks me to look back on the day. And I see a day I am thankful for because it was one not wasted. I was productive at work, accomplishing all that was necessary and preparing for the week to follow. I ran errands on the way home. I completed homework assignments in between an occasional text message. And now as the sun begins to set and the lights are fully on, I can end the day at ease.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Day 24: Thankful Today for Facebook

I am thankful today for Facebook. It allows me to stay connected to friends who are afar. Though hundreds of miles separate us, we are just a mouse click away with Facebook. We can catch up on each others' lives, see pictures of the family, or even chat live if we happen to be on at the same time. Through Facebook I have also reconnected with friends with whom I had lost touch.  And as the various friends of mine around the US share their lives I also learn about events, hobbies, inspiring quotes, etc. I wouldn't have otherwise been exposed to. Oh the possibilities of Facebook.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Day 23: Thankful Today for My Boss

I am thankful today for my boss. A misstep here and there, an occasional misunderstanding in communication, but then we reached it. We began to understand each other's ways of working. We began to see how our strengths and weaknesses complimented each other. We learned to combine them to become an effective working team. We began to accomplish more than other teams with a greater supply of resources. That turned out to be a drawback. But we will work through it.

Our relationship isn't perfect. How could it be? The things that make us a strong team sometimes causes difficulties. But we manage to still overcome. I am thankful for a boss that I can work well with.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Day 22: Thankful Today for an Uninterrupted Lunch

I am thankful today for an uninterrupted lunch. The school semester has started and my evenings are filled with homework. It is a relief when I can grab a portion of that hour at midday and catch up on reading or research. Quiet lunches where I can totally focus are rare, so I treasure them when they happen.

Monday, August 22, 2011

Day 21: Thankful Today for my Wireless Connection

I am thankful today for my cell phone and headset. They keep me connected to friends and family that are far away. My commute from work is sometimes long and can be frustrating. But if I link my bluetooth headset before I start my journey, then my ride is not alone. While I wait for traffic to move, I catch up on the latest events, provide a word of encouragement or receive some much needed advice from an outside perspective. Some say with all this technology we are too accessible. But for me, it keeps me connected.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Day 20: Thankful Today for Communion

I am thankful today for Communion. I am thankful for the privilege to join with the saints in recognizing the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior. I am thankful that His love is unconditional and that by his act of love, I am His.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Day 19: Thankful Today for A Beautiful Summer Day

I am thankful today for a beautiful Summer day. The sun shines adding the glow of summer to all caught in its rays. As I step out into the summer heat I am engulfed in its warmth. A momentary drop of sweat reminds me what season I am in. And I am pleased. I would much rather this than the cold. Also, that wonderful invention called air conditioning takes the edge off when the heat becomes too intense. I'll never tire of summer. I wish it lasted longer in my part of the world. Since it doesn't, I'll treasure every moment and enjoy it while it lasts.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Day 18: Thankful Today for My Co-Workers

I am thankful today for my Co-Workers. The job has been stressful lately, with rumors of more layoffs, bankruptcy, a sell-off of the company or possibly a shut down. Nothing has been confirmed but the talk has lowered the morale and increased the fear.

But I have those few co-workers who manage to cut through the tension and bring a smile. They find something to joke about or be hopeful about. They get past the rumors and instead talk of other things that inspire, and for a brief moment allow you to forget everything else. Or sometimes when the situation at hand weighs heavy they are able to lighten it with a look on the bright side. Or they express an exaggeration that tickles a laugh. If I could redefine the definition I would label them employees of the month.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Day 17: Thankful Today for My Favorite Sushi Place

I am thankful today for my favorite sushi place. They enabled me to transition into delicacies more adventurous than the California roll. I could count on a taste experience that never caused regret for venturing into the unknown. But when I was in the mood for the usual there was always the friendly voice on the phone that could complete my order before I spoke it. And a greeting with a smile during my pick up.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Day 16: Thankful Today for Those Who Stood Up

I am thankful today for those who stood up for their belief in equality for all. I saw the movie: "The Help" recently. There were so many messages in the film. But what affected me most was the courage of the women who decided to reveal the truth. They told the stories of their lives in Mississippi during the 60's. They were "The Help." They cooked, cleaned and cared for the children of their employers. And though slavery had ended, in some cases they were still treated as if they were owned.

I am so grateful to the women, men, children, black and white who told the "truth" and stood up for equality. It is because of their courage and their sacrifice that others like me have more opportunities. In addition to the honorable profession of "The Help" we can be doctors, bankers, governors, social workers, designers, restaurant owners, journalists, CEO's, computer programmers, engineers, etc. They opened doors that my generation has the responsibility to keep open.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Day 15: Thankful Today for Rainy Days

I am thankful today for Rainy Days. Though I love the sunshine most of all, an occasional rainy day is welcome. It cools the build up of heat and leaves behind a freshness in the air. The steady falling of raindrops create days that are perfect for curling up with a good book and a hot cup of tea. Or one of those days for getting the things done around the house that we put off when the sunny days beckon us outside. Some say the rain is tears from God. I say its Him watering his large garden so that we can enjoy the beauty of all he has grown.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Day 14: Thankful Today for a Smooth Upgrade

I am thankful today that upgrading my computer operating system went smoothly. Within a few hours I was back up and running and re-connected to my blog.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Day 13: Thankful Today for my Job


I am thankful today for my Job. It provides the funds needed for basic needs: clothes, food, shelter, etc. But it also provides the means for me to prepare for a future.

Friday, August 12, 2011

Day 12: Thankful Today for my Family Physician

I am thankful today for my Family Physician. His wry sense of humor reminds me to not take life too seriously. His curious and probing nature alerts me when there is an issue. I may not always agree with him, but I know when it's time to listen, and "try" his solution. And he also listens when I am not comfortable with the solution and is willing to look for an alternative. Together we have worked on my health, preventing what we can and treating what slips through. I got a clean bill of health today and a recognition of an upcoming birthday. Thanks Doc.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Day 11: Thankful Today for God's Presence

I am thankful today for God's presence. Even when I can't hear His voice, or feel His presence. Even when I feel so alone. I know, by faith, I am not. And He is here.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Day 10: Thankful Today for Christian Music Artists

I am thankful today for the Christian singers and songwriters in my music collection. So many of them could find a greater degree of financial success in the secular music business. But instead they reserve their talents to serve. They uplift, inspire, influence, encourage their Christian brothers and sisters in the faith. They provide a voice when we want to praise and don't have the words. They remind us of who He is and who we are in Him.

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Day 9: Thankful Today for the View at Work

I am thankful today for the view outside my office window. When the rain clears and the fog lifts you can see past the parking lot to the mountains ahead. When the day is stressful, a few minutes of gazing at the sun-drenched scenery brings a moment of peace.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Day 8: Thankful Today for My Home Gym

I am thankful today for my Home Gym. It has taken me years to acquire the pieces. Some the result of fitness fads. Others backed by intensive research. And then the old standbys. Bands, medicine balls, kettlebells, dumbbells, etc. A variety of equipment but all sharing one purpose: to get me in shape. When it rains, they are there. When the gym is closed or bad weather keeps me from going, they are there. Always providing a way to exercise without excuse. Of course, excuses are sometimes found, but at least its nice to know I have the means to not give into them if I so choose.

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Day 7: Thankful Today for an "A"

I am thankful today for an "A" in my last class. It represents weeks of hard work, late nights and other sacrifices. But it also reminds me of the many things I learned. The summer semesters are short and thus intense. They seem to go by in a painful blur. But this past semester taught me so much. I was introduced to new technologies, new ways of working together and new relationships. It also brightened my hope for what lies ahead in the new career I pursue.

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Day 6: Thankful Today for a Certain Friend

I am thankful today for a certain friend. He comes to mind because he will soon be moving to start a new life in a new place. I met him years ago but then I moved on and we lost touch. Then one day he stepped into my life again. It was the perfect time for both of us. We had each began journeys that would need the presence of an old friend to get through. So we became that voice of history, wisdom, and support for each other. In him I found the little brother I never had and a compassion I rarely see.

I'll miss him as he moves on. But am thankful for the time he was here. My friend, may the Lord keep you and guide you.
—Love Grace

Friday, August 5, 2011

Day 5: Thankful Today for Fridays.

I am thankful today for Fridays. They hold a certain promise. A promise of time. Time to catch up on unfinished projects, time to run waiting errands, time to spend with family and friends, or time to do nothing. Fridays. The end of the work week, but beginning of the weekend....................I love Fridays.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Day 4: Thankful Today for Lunch Hour Bible Studies

I am thankful today for my lunch hour Bible Study. We wolf down our lunches then slip away to a quiet conference room away from all the commotion. Away from the talk of Friday night plans of happy hours, away from the demands of emails, away from the stress of rush projects. For one brief half hour in the day we talk of miracles, of the mysteries of God, of his strange affection for a being that continually rejects him. But yet he loves. We are amazed at the awesomeness of his power and the depths of his forgiveness. We discuss the short ministry he lived and prophecies of his coming. We reminisce about the ways he's touched our lives and the prayers he has answered. Then we close, with a moment of gratitude and requests for his continual guidance and protection as we walk back out into the commotion, the chaos. Hoping that we carry with us a spark of the light we just experienced. And we close.

Goodbye my lunch hour Bible Study partner. I wish you peace and favor where the Lord is bringing you. Thank you for sharing the Word with me and bringing a lift to the middle of my day. May the Lord bring us both new Bible Study partners to continue the lunch hour journeys we began. Next week is John Chapter 7. Write me and tell me what he speaks to you in it. Blessing to you and safe travels
—Grace

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Day 3: Thankful Today for Friends, Old and New

I am thankful today for all my friends, old and new. Yesterday, I had a few conversations with friends. Some were friends I have known for years, others have only been in my life a short time. But all have mattered in countless ways and brought their unique influences to the way my life has evolved.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Day 2: Thankful Today for My Walks in the Park

I am thankful today for my walks in the park after work. They are that time and space between the stress of work and the calm of home. The sunshine reveals the things I need to let go and brightens the plans I have waiting for me. The sweat from my exertion over each hill washes away the worries I carried with me. As I wipe it away, my thoughts change to the joy that awaits me at the end of the walk. Tired but yet renewed I am now ready to begin the second half of the day. My half.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Day 1: Thankful Today for the Journey

I am thankful today for the start of a new journey. This exploration into developing a habit of gratitude is long overdue. I have been through a season in life where so many hopes have ended or prayers not yet answered. But though my life isn't what I would have dreamed or hoped for, if I stop and really look at it, it isn't a bad life. And as the saying goes; it could be worse. There are so many things I should be thankful for. And so I embark on this journey to learn how to change my vision. To recognize the good that is there. It's not easy when what's there doesn't line up with the expectations you had. So I take it one step at a time. And the first step is this blog, which is something else I am thankful for. It is my first one. So as I explore what is a new media for me. I hope to develop, "a new attitude."