I’m Thankful For…
Well, it’s that time of year again. Pilgrims and cornucopias line every hallway, grocery stores are overflowing with pumpkins and cotton candy, and you’re probably headed home to see family. Once you arrive, you and all of your other relatives will catch up on the latest family news, and sit down for a huge turkey dinner. However, before you can dig into your piled-too-high plate of food, Grandad will say, “so, what is everyone thankful for this year?”
You’re thinking – “I’m exhausted. Midterms stressed me out to my breaking point. I could be sleeping right now. Why can’t I eat!?” All of which are understandable. But there are always things to be thankful for. Be thankful for the opportunity to receive a higher education. Be thankful for the crazy California weather – it’s God showing us his spunky, creative side. Be thankful to be with all of your loved ones – even though they drive you crazy. Be thankful for a week of rest.
Even more importantly, be thankful for God’s grace and love. Everyone makes mistakes, college students probably a little more than average. Be thankful that his love is unending and unchanging. Be thankful that he is forgiving.
I am learning that when you choose to have a thankful mindset, your eyes are opened to the beauty all around you, and your heart is filled with joy. Now, being joyful does not mean being happy all the time. Joy is not an emotion, but rather a state of mind. Choosing to be thankful and joyful does not mean that everything in your life is working out the way you planned.
Having this joy from Christ is so much more rewarding than being circumstantially happy. Choose to be thankful this holiday season!
— Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! – Psalm 107:1
Amber Leigh Sands
Student Worker
College of Health Science