Giving Thanks, Even in the Midst of a Rainy Day

I'm terrible at this, keeping up with blogging, thing. But that's just who I am. It's raining out side right now and I've been griping about it all day. Just a minute ago, it hit me, that's not what God wants from me. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, "Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

That's not what I've been doing though. I've been complaining about the rain, the closed for construction library, and the fact that the parking lot is not yet finished behind my dorm so there is mud everywhere and parking is horrendous. Instead of grumbling, I've decided to write a list of things I am thankful for.

1. I am thankful for the rain that waters the grass and trees and brings life to all things.

2. I am thankful for the construction workers that are working to provide the school with space so that new students can attend the school.

3. I am thankful that I will not become poisoned by asbestos while construction commences on the bottom floor of the library, even if it means circumventing the entire building to get upstairs, or vice versa.

4. I am thankful for an amazing English Department that has provided me with a multitude of opportunities and an overabundance of classes I could take.

5. I am thankful for my English professors who convinced me that English really is the right major for me.

6. I am thankful for families of my English professors who are willing to invite English students over to their houses for get-togethers.

7. I am thankful for small children, they ALWAYS brighten my day!

8. I am thankful for a wonderfully supportive family.

9. I am thankful for the opportunity I was given to attend this school, I truly believe this is where I belong.

10. I am most thankful for my friends. Meals spent laughing and blushing. Talks that lead to me getting up the courage to do things I generally wouldn't do. Reading poetry when I just can't understand a thing that was meant. Laughing over trying to correctly pronounce Medieval words. And the making of sandwiches. I am so glad God placed all of you in my life, and I can't wait to see what the next four years hold for me.

God is good and has given me many things. I am so thankful for this and so much more. I want to challenge you today to be thankful when you want to complain. Rejoice in the little God has given you.

Meghan