Things I'm thankful for....

I'm thankful for many things but one thing I'm most thankful for is for a MEAN Momma and Daddy! They taught me to be tough, shut up, grow up and put my shoulder to the plow. I have worked hard to teach my kids the same thing. Only time will tell if I've accomplished!

I'm thankful I'm goal oriented. Since the year is rapidly coming to an end Kent and I have been busy setting goals for next year. Since Trent is no longer at home we haven't talked with him about his personal goals for 2009. We have shared some goals for the church with him for 2009. We have spent some time talking with Redonia about her personal goals for 09. In fact tonight she called me on her way home from college and we talked her entire way home about some of her goals. She called to tell me she signed up for a class that is one of her electives that covers goal setting, tasks, etc. I'm excited about the class. I want to take it with her!

I'm thankful I'm a list maker. I'm wise enough to know that I may forget something important. Lists help keep me on track.

I'm thankful that I do not struggle with low self esteem. Regardless what may go on in my life I have confidence that I can get thru with God. When we realize we are not alone there is never reason for low self esteem.

I'm thankful I do not get offended easily. According to wikipedia.org the phrase "having a chip on one's shoulder" means having a harbored grievance and being quick to take offense. What a miserable way to live! Who would want to harbor grivances and be offended easily? I learned a long time ago if I harbor a bad feeling it's my fault and only hurts me. I also learned a long time ago that people easily offended hurts themselves for soon everyone 'knows those that labor among them'. No one willfully wants to spend time with the easily offended. After all it isn't fun walking on egg shells.

I'm thankful that even when America's economy is bad, finances may be challenged, society is frustrated, and we aren't sure of our governmental leading that God is in control. I do not have to be consumed with fear or doubt. We are living in God's economy and He always will prevail. I'm thankful that God is with me no matter the situations around me. I'm thankful I don't go sideways for the world to see when I maybe stressed. I'm thankful that I know it is my place to add support and value to my husband and my children and not go crazy and stress out. I am concerned when people have faith when all is well but in the midst of pressures they resort to ungodly behavior.

I'm thankful I was taught that honesty is a priority. As a child I knew if I did something wrong I would be 'in trouble' but if I was dishonest the consequences were much greater. I'm concerned with adults being deceptive and not thinking they are lying. Honesty is important in words, actions, and attitudes. Why act sick if you are not? Why make situations seem worse?

I'm thankful I don't like drama...as in drama in life. Yes, life becomes dramatic at times but I don't have to create drama.

I'm thankful that I was taught at TBC and probably even before to learn from other's actions. Learning isn't only 'what to do' but often it encompasses 'what not to do'. I want to be an avid learner!

These are some random thoughts I've had of late......I'm thankful!