This is my HAPPY THANKSGIVING email to you! I will not be sending out my weekly Be Inspired email on Thanksgiving Day next week.
I’ve learned the lesson of the message on this photo so many times!
I must admit to you that my biggest lesson was last year when I was feeling the shock and overwhelm of caring for my mom’s sudden onset of problems that has changed all of our lives.
I heard myself saying aloud, “I hate my life!” Again and again actually!
I had just lost one of my brother’s the year before and now my mom was on the fast trek to follow him, along with another brother. I felt like I was losing everyone I loved all at the same time. I was devastated and sad. And the rapidly growing care needs for both my mom and brother were overwhelming and depressing.
Eventually…I learned the lesson of asking for help. We don’t have to walk through struggles alone my friends. Life is supposed to take a village. From the very beginning God provided a “helpmate.” We are better together. A message I’ve been reminded of many times in the past year.
But an even greater lesson came when I replaced feelings focused on all the dread and drama with gratitude. Gratitude for the gift of precious time with my loved ones! Moment by moment! One day at a time. Each day is a gift. And I realized that my own life – each day of my life – was a gift, too. And I focused more and more on what I was doing with the precious gift of my life.
Was I living a life of love, joy, passion, purpose?
Truly….Gratitude changes everything! (The title of one of my new journals publishing soon!)
Gratitude helps you see your life as a gift. Share on X
I wish you a blessed day and season of thanks giving!
Annette Bridges
Author, Publisher and Women's Retreat Host
Annette Bridges is an author, publisher and women’s retreat host on a mission to help every woman realize her story is extraordinary, valuable and noteworthy. Part of Annette’s own journaling practice includes collecting ideas, quotes, songs, videos and photos that inspire her. She shares some of her finds in these weekly “Be Inspired” posts to lift your spirit with encouragement, comfort and joy.
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