The Effort of Being Thankful

We haven’t been here a year yet and because of that we are still having “first time in Africa” experiences. This Thanksgiving is one of those and it’s proving to be a tough one.

A lot of it has to do with the fact that fall in the mid-west is one of our favorite things. The change in the air, in the trees, in the rhythm of life is refreshing and rejuvenating. We love the crisp air and the things that come with it- flannel shirts and hoodies, fires, flurries, and all things apple and pumpkin and cinnamon, red and orange and brown.

Here we have the brown (dirt) and the red (clay), we can get some apples and even pumpkin pie, but it just isn’t the same and we are lamenting that. And now, as we now enter this time of year that has always been so family-oriented and full of quality time with those we love… in light of the things that are different here, we’re just struggling to be as grateful as we should for the things that are here.

This is not meant to be a complaint, though I know that’s what it sounds like. What I want it to be is an exercise in the effort of being grateful.  Here goes-

We’re thankful for:

Izaac: Thanksgiving dinner!

Ellie: My bunny, Princess

Christina: Being able to have/make good coffee

Benj: The sense of adventure so often

Izaac: A safe trip in the car yesterday

Ellie: That my pinky feels better

Christina: Having family in Uganda with us  

Benj: So many people who faithfully support and encourage us

Izaac: School and my friends there

Ellie: Goretti and Sugar cane!

Christina: Technology to stay connected

Benj: More experienced Missionary friends who share wisdom with us

Izaac: That I’m not at school today

New friends who welcome us into their communities

A diverse church body that teaches Gospel truth and challenges us

Friends and acquaintances from all over the worldTropical sunsets

Rainstorms

Electricity

Clean water

Family game times

Fresh, delicious, abundant fruits and veggies

A broader worldview for all of us

New experiences

Difficult challenges

Busyness and rest 

So Much More!!