Greetings,
It is unbelievable that Thanksgiving is here! It seemed like we were just waltzing into the New Year with lofty expectations. Yet, I’m thankful for so many things. Some of them were hard to be thankful about, like the transition of my beloved sister, Brenda Showers. It was bittersweet—she may not be with us physically and we miss her dearly, but she no longer is suffering and for that I am thankful. Many are experiencing the loss of loved ones as they celebrate the first Thanksgiving without them. It can be especially sorrowful as you walk through the first year. Others just missed their loved ones who made their transitions in previous years. Nevertheless, it causes you to reflect on how much you miss them, love them, and cherish their memory. I am thankful to God for placing inside each of us the resiliency to come back from such a major and permanent loss. That is the beauty of God. He completely understands the finiteness of who we are, yet he built inside of us the ability to bounce back from life’s harshest blows. God gave us the precious gift of memories. This personifies even more as the days, months, and years propels you forward. During this season, there are family members who have disassociated themselves. Continue to pray and be thankful for them. Celebrate them and believe that your prayers are not only heard by God but answered for the restoration and reconciliation of those relationships. Regardless of the intensity of whatever you may be going through, there is always something to give thanks to God about. If you can’t think of anything, just hold your hand up to your mouth and blow. Then thank God for placing His life-generating breath inside of you. Take a moment to thank God for each other. God knew we did not need to be alone. There is someone that needs you this Thanksgiving season. If you have never lost anyone, reach out to someone who has. Spend time with them. Don’t become impatient when they talk about their loved one too much. They just need a compassionate listening ear. You’re there to help them through a difficult process. Reach out to those less fortunate and be a bright spot in their day. What an awesome gift—the gift of your presence. Whatever holiday traditions you had, believe me your loved ones want you to continue with them. They enjoyed them while they were here with you, and they want you to continue to enjoy them. Not to mention, for you to pass on to subsequent generations the importance of family and upholding family traditions. In your celebrations and convivium with family, focus on being in the present as you celebrate these moments of love, joy, and laughter. Because these moments evolve into precious memories of love, joy, and laughter in the future. That’s my commitment. Not to focus on what is a perceived loss, but I am blessed with family, both then and now. In our hearts, each one is always with us. Won’t you join me in celebrating Thanksgiving for every blessing of family God gave us—both then and now!
Have a Happy Blessed Thanksgiving!
Jacqui Showers
The Bold Encourager Business Encouragement Coach
Father, When my job quits me and I am told to leave, what do I do? All I can do is look to the hills where my help comes from. My help only comes from You. Bless me not to become anxious or fearful, but to experience joy and peace with the closed door. Bless me with courage, strength, and confidence as You lead me to the big open doors as I walk boldly through them. Amen. #prayersforsuccess #showersblessing
Showers' Blessing Inspires 