I'd Like To Thank...

So apparently, it's some sort of 'Thanksgiving' day in the ol' USA today. Or, as my Dad described it when I told him this was the case, "Oh, it's their turkey time today, is it?" :o)

I am a little sad today, because I know my guy is celebrating with his family and I wish I could be there to share it. Aside from the American historical aspect, I love the idea of Thanksgiving. It's such a simple thing, but I like the notion of a day set aside for being with your loved ones, to take stock of all the aspects of life that are special, to remember what you are grateful for and express appreciation for it.

So, although I don't have the privilege of a whole weekend off in which to do this (I'm not bitter), I thought some thanks of my own were in order. So, this year, what am I thankful for?

• The fact that this year is nearly over. This might sound a terribly negative first point to make, but it has been an odd sort of year. I have had the usual peaks and troughs of contentment, have faced a steep learning curve at times and have done some growing up, I think. It hasn't necessarily been easy or enjoyable, but I'm further along than I was at the top of the year. And for that, I am thankful.
  
  
• My relationships. I know everyone says they are thankful for their friends and family, but I am specifically thankful for the developments in my relationships this year so far. I think I have got to know myself a little better this year, which has enhanced the way I respond to situations and interact with those around me. I feel I have grown closer to those already close to me and got to know some wonderful people I didn't know before.
  
  
• Moral support. I don't have a huge circle of friends, but the people in my life sure are there for a reason. I have fantastic sisters. I have a best friend I sincerely love. I have close friends that have proved indispensable to me, that I appreciate dearly. Sometimes you don't realise how many supportive people you have in your life until you suddenly find you really need the support. I needed support this year and I am so thankful for how much I actually have.
  
  
• Creative outlets. Writing can be such a therapeutic exercise. I am thankful that at times when I am unable to express something verbally, or deal with it practically, the words on the page allow the catharsis I need.
  
  
• Answered prayers. I am sorry to admit that I haven't been faithful to God in my actions this year. I have been rebellious, stubborn-headed and obstinate. I've wrestled with a few issues and feelings. But I've spoken to Him about it, through my tears and disappointments and contrition. I am so thankful that God is not only patient with me, but when I have sincerely asked for help for others as well as myself, He has come through for me, on several occasions. There is nothing I have done to deserve God's love and blessings. How could I ever be unthankful for that?
  
  
• Random meetings. My Boy and I met unexpectedly, in random circumstances, at a fortuitous time. It's cliché I know, but I do believe everything occurs for a reason. I don't much believe in coincidence. Being in a long-distance relationship has been a real challenge at times, has brought me to tears, has been difficult and frustrating (I've made that sound terrible! Haha), but I don't regret it. Despite the difficulties, we have many more reasons to stick at it. I will avoid getting all soppy here! All I will say is that I am so thankful I met that man.

I could carry on this list of thanks for a while longer, but I wouldn't want a blog post so long that it had you feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude when it was finally over. :o) In any situation, there is always something to be thankful for, huh?

To all my American buddies...Happy Thanksgiving, y'all.