This post is maybe a slight deviation from my normal post topics, but I thought I would share it anyway.

If I had to pick just one quality to become part of my character, I think it would be gratefulness. The reason I would choose gratefulness is that being grateful effects so many areas of life, and it is a character quality that becomes very evident to others. This summer, I remember talking to a woman at work. After that conversation of mainly small talk and such, I remember feeling very blessed and inspired by her. She hadn’t said anything particularly profound or meaningful; in fact, I don’t even remember what we talked about. What I do remember is that she expressed gratitude and contentment in everything she said.

Her positive attitude and grateful spirit made a definite impact on me, and it made me wonder what impact I leave on the people I talk to. I will confess that after thinking about my attitude and the things I say, I came to the conclusion that people probably aren’t always inspired after being with me. I wouldn’t say I am a negative and grumpy person, but I can err on being a bit pessimistic. I am striving to engrain gratefulness into my thoughts, words, and actions. Instead of spouting off whatever complaint or disgruntled thought that crosses my mind, I am trying to find something to be grateful for.

I know God has richly blessed my life, and He sufficiently meets every need I have. When I remember that my life is His and trust in His provision, I realize that I have no reason to complain. There is no reason for me not to be grateful. This is a very freeing and inspiring realization.

This week, we got some snow again, and it made for some stunning scenery! It was a wet snow that stuck to the trees and worked well to make snowmen. It was a good opportunity to observe the different perspectives of snow. Some people complain about the inconveniences that snow brings- poor roads for traveling, extra work with shoveling, wet boots and socks, and the list can go on. Instead of focusing on those unpleasantries, other choose to enjoy God’s beautiful handiwork and soak in the child-like thrill that snow and winter time can bring.

I loved watching Mia and Duchess in the snow. They definitely fall in the grateful category. In fact, they always fall in the grateful category. They are happy and content with whatever life brings them. Am I?

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. {1 Chronicles 16:34}

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. {Colossians 3:17}

I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all Your marvelous works. {Psalm 9:1}

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. {1 Thessalonians 5:18}

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! {2 Corinthians 9:15}

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. {Philippians 4:6}