my cup runneth over

i've heard a series of commentaries this week about the traditions of thanksgiving. some folks appreciate the opportunity to be intentional about the things we are thankful for. others seem to think of it as a silly or unnecessary obstacle to the literal main course--turkey. honestly, i've probably found myself in both camps from year to year. it is always nice to have a time dedicated to being thankful, especially when we all spend so much time complaining the other 364 days of the year. but it does sometimes feel really forced and strange that we would only be focused on being grateful on one day of the year. then there's the problem of being thankful whatever our circumstances. it's easy to practice thankfulness when things are great and you are "blessed" (as my southern friends would say). it's a lot more difficult to recognize your blessings in the midst of trials. so maybe it is good to have a day specifically set aside to think only on being grateful, whatever your circumstances.
this year i feel like i am overwhelmed by God's faithfulness and blessing. even though this year has been unbelievably difficult at times, i feel like i am seeing truly how God can turn ashes into beauty, despair into joy.  i feel like i am being given grace to understand why our journey to starting a family has been so long. inasmuch as i feel the pain of learning patience, i also am being given eyes to see the tremendous gift we have been given, as so many couples never get to realize their dream of having a family. i am learning to be thankful for God's timing, as i have come to see just how perfect it is. i am thankful for the joy and the despair, because they are a part of our story. without either one, i wouldn't have the anticipation of having this sweet little boy. with every kick and punch and somersault (and there are many), i come to love him more and more. i cannot wait to hold him in my arms. i can't imagine feeling any greater joy than i do, and i think my heart might burst when i see his face. four months seems like a long time, but i know it will be here in a wink. until then, i have plenty of opportunity to practice thankfulness, both for ashes and beauty.