It's that time of year again Lord, when we fill our tables with a bounty of food and surround ourselves with the love of family and friends.

As if on cue, all of us reserve this special day to take the opportunity to reflect on all the reasons we have for being thankful.

But, it seems that when times are tough and life isn't running as smoothly as we're use to, we become much more aware of the little things in life , and we treasure them with a renewed compassion that only hard times allow.

This year, in spite of the havoc threatening our world, there are still so many things to be thankful for.  Things that may not have even drew a second glance from us in years past, but now give new meaning to this fragile world we find ourselves living in today.

Through these eyes I see so very much to be thankful for.

Help me Lord to always seek out the joy in the little things.

....SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR

The graciousness of all grocery store cashiers and baggers who are always so friendly and courteous despite the hardships they face under uncertain employment conditions.

Neighbors who are never too busy to lend a cup of sugar or a smile when needed.

A forwarded e-mail from a child away at college that brings tears to your eyes because you realize they really have been listening all along.

The gentle reminder that, 'nobody's perfect' will help us all to enjoy quality time with relatives gathered around the Thanksgiving Day table.

The joy of welcoming my husband home, after a long day at work, and through his tired eyes I still see the sparkle in his eyes that says he's glad to see me too.

As we continue to be bombarded with news updates of potential terrorist threats we can take some comfort in knowing our nation's leaders are doing their best to keep us safe.

The gift of waking up each morning with the choice of how I will greet the new day.

The comfort in knowing that with my family and friends beside me there is nothing I cannot do. 

The incredible bravery of the men and women of our Armed Forces, who are aware of the dangers this country faces--who know the cost of freedom--and who are willing to pay the ultimate price for what they believe in.  To them we owe our deepest thanks. 

Most of all Lord, help us to remember that as long as the spirit of humanity is alive and well, there will always be something for us to be thankful for.

Kathy whirity lives in chicago where she shares her live and love with her husband, Bill, their two daughters, Jaime and Katie, and two rambunctious retrievers, Holly and Hannah.  Kathy is a family life columnist for two area newspapers.  For more of Kathy's writings you may visit her web page: KATHY WHIRITY'S MUSINGS FROM THE HEART :
http://www.heartwarmers4u.com/members?kathyw