Attitude of Gratitude

As a parent we are constantly reminding our kids to say 'please' and 'thank you'. We start this from when they are really young by saying it for them, then helping them to say it for themselves (say 'Taaaaa'). I must say, unfortunately, I'm still reminding them!

As we enter into the an joyful season of Christmas I'm reminded of what my life should be an example of, an attitude of gratitude. As I go about my mundane duties of cleaning, washing, cooking..... and the list goes on..... I can get bogged down with the thoughts of how much work needs to be done to make the house just look presentable. A few years ago I was challenged in my thoughts towards my home keeping with the thought that first of all that this is a privileged job, yes job, that I have been given to care for my family as the primary care giver and home maker. As my husband goes to work each day and works hard all day to 'bring home the bacon' so should I 'work' as hard to give him the bacon and all the trimmings.

The second thought I had one day while I was grumbling to myself about how much washing up I had to do when so tired from looking after 2 toddlers and a bub, I had a voice come into my head saying "at least you have this amount to wash up". Then later on that day looking around the house the voice continued "at least you have more than one room in your house, at least you have more than the clothes on your back to wear", I think you get the idea. From then on I have always tried to look at my home duties in this new light of gratitude for all I do have not on what I don't.

We have a friend from America who came over for dinner and taught us a 'game' they play every time they sit down for dinner. We don't do it every meal but we have continued it every so often, I think that this will become our new (occasional) tradition. This game is call 'what was your high (of the day/ week/ year, whatever you choose)', 'what was your low', and 'what are you thankful for'. As everyone around the table said their highs, lows, thankfulness we first of all find out how their day was and to end each thought with thankfulness. A positive note, this is a great habit of looking at the good in every day.

As we come to Christmas I think it is a great time for all to reflect on about what you can be thankful for. Maybe you might like to join us this Christmas in playing this 'game'.

I'll start, My High for this year is finishing my course and new family work opportunities, My Low has been learning that I can't do everything (as much I'd like too), I'm Thankful for the best family who supported me and gave me space to do assignments and readings to complete my studies.

I would be honored if you would share with me so I could rejoice and empathize and Amen those things that impacted your life this year. Praying you all have the most amazing Christmas celebrating with family and friends and thinking about what I think the biggest reason for the season is, that we all should be Thankful for ......the birth of our Lord......Jesus......Our Saviour!!

from my heart to yours,

Peta