Turkeys all over the United States become terrified as Thanksgiving rolls around. For them, it’s like the Reaping in the Hunger Games. The turkeys wait to hear their number called so they can join the “games” of a holiday created in 1789. I’m sure none of the turkeys volunteer as tribute but they get to be baked, brined, fried and even slow roasted and put as the centerpiece of a multi-generational feast. Sometimes the gathering consists of the nuclear family, friends and even relatives that haven’t been seen since the last Thanksgiving a year prior. It could be entertaining finding out what people have been up to or thanking God that once a year is enough to endure their presence. Whatever the situation, it’s a time to reflect and give thanks to God for what has been given, obtained and endured.
On Tuesday, as I walked into Legion of Power CrossFit for an actual CrossFit class, it was like coming to a Thanksgiving gathering among extended family. There were some “Hi’s” and “What are you up to? I haven’t seen you for a while.” Yet the best reaction was from Davida that wrapped her arms around me and gave me the best welcome back I’ve ever received. It reminded me that LPC is home and the people are family. That workout was filled with 35 pound kettlebell farmer’s carry, dumbbell hang clean and jerks, 200 meter run and deadlifts. People were dying, trapezius muscles were burning, hands were gathering new blisters and legs were on fire. All of us made that WOD ours and though Davida was last, she finished that WOD RXing it and pushing past some pain. She’s a family member I look up to:)
As this Thanksgiving came and went, I wasn’t surrounded by my usual company. As a matter of fact, my kids left with their dad a day early, my oldest showed up that day with a tearful boyfriend that couldn’t stay and my son from another bun lounged on his favorite couch wrapped in pillows. The meal was the best I could give but it did give me time to reflect.
Psalm 136:1
Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His love endures forever.
When I consider the past year, it’s easy to think of the trials and struggles but it’s effortless to see how God has been good. Here is my list in no particular order.
I am grateful for my 4 children that keep me young and remind me I need more patience and peace.
I am grateful for my friend group that loves me for me and believe that I can achieve much.
I am grateful that I got to go to personal training school and get to embark on an adventure of a lifetime doing something I love to build something I leave.
I am grateful for my job at the gym that allows me to use my motivating skills.
I am grateful that my bills are paid and I live in the best community in Arizona.
Thanksgiving might be over but it's never too late to meditate on the good in our lives no matter how big or small.
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