So more drama has happened, and I think it is easy for me to wallow in self-pity and think about all the things that aren't working instead of being grateful for the things that are good. I think I will take a moment to thank God for the things that make me happy and the things that are good in my life.
Thank you, Most Merciful Father, for:
-a family that loves me
-living with the Pecks and having a second family
-Colleen Corner--all the lovely ladies that live there and love me
-dancing with Dana, Lauren, and Kirstin
-Krishna lunch
-the Coffee Pub
-being able to hang out with the scanners to do SPOT
-new friends
-InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
-Wednesday night cell group
-Monday night prayer group
-Four Oaks--music ministry, Sunday worship, fellowship group
-getting to play djembe for Kris Braun
-drinking tea with Kari and playing Rock Band with Josh and David
-good coffee and loose-leaf tea
-God's Word and wise people around me to help interpret it
-good officemates
-affectionate friends
-encouragers in my life: Becky, Leah, Carla, Scott, Tim, Ana, Steve, Karin, Claire, Emily
-fun banter with Steve on gmail chat
-people from which to glean spiritual wisdom: Lois, Scott, David, Maiken, Crispy (Christi), Leah, Paul Harlacher, Jacob, Lani, Renee, Chrissy, Carrie Campbell, Josh, Tim
-puns and Chrissy Brown's humor!
-friends who've sent me letters/postcards/emails
-people with a sweet spirit: Deni, Claire, Carrie Willis, Maiken, Meredith
-older friends that give me a more mature perspective on life
-MUSIC
-chocolate, especially gifts of chocolate
-a job that helps me pay the bills and covers medical expenses
-lots of positive influences in my life so that there's no need to focus on the negative ones
-the Landis ladies (despite the lack of contact)
-surprises
-acting crazy with Emily and Lauren
Lord, I could go on and on. Help me to have a heart that is thankful for the things You have given me, and take away the heart that is bitter about things You have taken away. I know that You work all things for the best because You love me. Lord give me moderation and self-control. Help me to love those things but to honor You above all. I praise You for making me the way I am, and I ask Your forgiveness for not always loving myself, which is Your creation. I praise You, Lord God. Amen.
