For those of you who are in the USA today is a day set aside to be with our loved ones and to remember all the things we are thankful for. Indeed we are all very blessed. Although there may be troubles happening around us and even in our midst, there are still so many blessings that we have as compared to much of the world. Even the simple things you may take for granted every day, such as paved roads, consistent electricity, and plentiful clean water. These are things that probably all of us enjoy every day without a second thought, but they are things that many people in the world do not have. I do not say this to bring guilt to anyone, but only to help us gain perspective. So many times we become self focused and lost in our own problems. We forget just how blessed and free we really are.

In each and every situation we have a choice: how will we respond? What tools will we rely upon to get us through? Will we use prayer, joy, trust, patience, peace, forgiveness, praise or perseverance? Or will we choose grumbling, complaining, worrying, self pity or other self-defeating attitudes? God tells us that no matter what the circumstances he will never leave us or forsake us. He also promises that his grace is sufficient for all of our weaknesses. No matter what we may face, or how weak we may feel, he can give us his strength and the Holy Spirit helps us to choose the right path if we will submit ourselves to him.

So, everyone please have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving. Don’t worry if the relatives argue, or the turkey isn’t thawed, or if you’re not even sure how you’re going to pay those bills that are coming due. Your God is with you & he will carry you on Eagle’s wings!

I also wanted to let you know if some of you are looking for a different type of Christmas present for those on your list this year, that we do have some practical and helpful options for you. There are items needed for the Home of Innocence that you could give in honor of someone else. Our boys in the home need the following items:

Basins (used for bathing): 4 basins, $8 total
Cooking pots: 3 pots, $8 each, or $24 total
Thermos (for morning tea): 3 of them, $20 total
Bath towels: $8 each (up to 15 of them)
Bed sheets: $8 each (up to 15 of them)

For items that we need multiples of you may choose to buy one, several, or all of them, it is completely up to you.  Giving may be done on the website giving page or by mail.  If you would like to donate towards these Home of Innocence needs, please email [email protected] so that I can arrange for you to receive a certificate to give the person the gift is made in honor of.

Thank you & God bless you!
Lisa