Belated Thanksgiving thoughts

I joined a small group in a church I have been attending and we had our Thanksgiving celebration the week before Thanksgiving. While having dinner with members of my small group I had a couple realizations about needs. The small group serves to meet my needs of not only when I am in crisis or need help but they serve as family. Earlier this year I had a falling out with my sister and I know I will not spend time with them or see them but it does not sink in until a holiday approaches and have that feeling to be surrounded by family. I can visit my parents and still spend time with them but not going over to my sister & brother in law’s place is awkward. They hosted events every holiday and spending time with them seemed central to enjoying the holidays in many ways.

As I sat down for dinner and talked with people I realized we may not have the same sentimental bonds or years of memories & connection I have with my family but these people do not care and love me and spend time me anyway. As I sit with I am reminded of how faithful God is as he does provide and make a way.

While listening to conversations I over heard a conversation about everything we need for our needs to be met is right there before us. We need to recognize that and seize those things before us. I realized all the family & connections I need to make it through life can be met by people around this table or through my church.

I have spent most of my life unaware of the blessings I have and the longer I live and more situations I am in I can see how God has blessed me with friends and people that are close like family. Jeff and Michelle Saeger’s family have been loyal & loving to me as they always invite me over to their place for holidays or to hang out for events. This Thanksgiving I can see where I am blessed with friends who treat me like family. I have much to be thankful for.