Giving thanks saved my life.

During the 1991-1992 school year, all three of my children were placed in special education. As upsetting as this was, it took two years for me to descend into depression. The practice of thankfulness helped me to come out of it. Here is that story in more detail, Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks:  https://annkilter.com/2011/12/13/rejoice-pray-give-thanks/

^“16 Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”(I Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Every year, at Thanksgiving, we make a practice of telling each other what we are thankful for. Many of my friends on Facebook are posting what they are thankful for. This is good.

Lately, I have been thinking about giving thoughtfully in response to my gratitude. In  the past, I have given to homeless shelters, the Salvation Army, and food drives. Every year, my church has a Thanksgiving Eve potluck and service. During the service, some members of the congregation will share how God has blessed them in practical and spiritual ways. At the end of the service, an offering is taken and we give in response.

This year, I think I would like to give more, thoughtfully and frequently.

Thanks. Giving.

We have been blessed by Easter Seals therapy programs, equine therapy, our school marching band. When the opportunity arises, I want to practice more thanks giving.