Thankful – Spiel the Beans Linkup

What better way to start November’s Spiel the Beans linkup than with a post about something we are thankful for?  Hmm…or maybe, just maybe you are thankful for something but often take it for granted.  Whichever you choose, we would love for you to share with us today.  We will have the linkup open through next Tuesday so you have plenty of time to share!

I thought quite a bit about this one as there are so many things I’m thankful for.  There are equally as many of those things I often take for granted.   Lately, however, I’ve been reminded how thankful I am for my health; both physical and mental.  

Physically I am probably in the best shape of my life even though the BMI might not agree.  I feel strong and able most days.  Since 2011 I’ve had a hip that has been bothering me and this past year it has really set me back a little.  I just cannot seem to beat it.  Still, I can get through a fairly tough workout and thus far it has not stopped me from any of the things I love.  When I think of people out there who are facing something so much more difficult such as cancer, MS, broken bones I really am so fortunate. My pain is somewhat manageable and only an irritation.  Maybe just enough to remind me I need to keep going and be aware of taking care of my body to the best of my ability.  

On the mental side I am also in the best shape of my life.  Every day is not rosy.  I still get frustrated, mad, hurt and overwhelmed often; sometimes daily.  There was a time in my life when I did not cope well.  I would find myself down and I didn’t want to climb out of it.  Many times over my life I have sought out counseling when I needed help.  At some point I found a love for loving on and helping others and by taking the focus off me I was always able to climb out of my funk.  Learning to trust God to lead me I truly believe has also helped me in many ways and I can tell the difference when I’m leaning on him.  Believe me, I am thankful.  I know for so many it is not this simple.  There are people out there struggling beyond what I can imagine.  

So as we head into this holiday season, I want to be thankful for my mental and physical health but be conscious and aware there are those out there for whom this is a tough, tough time.  For those with physical limitations I’m sure this time of hustle and bustle can be quite trying.  I know how tough it is to make good choices with all the holiday food and goodies around but can only imagine for someone with weight or health issues this could be an especially trying time.  At the top, though, would be those people suffering mentally.  Those trying to get through this season when so many people are full of life and celebration while they are hurting.  Maybe they are missing a loved one, maybe they are more alone than they have ever been in their life.  Maybe the stress of the financial burden to provide Christmas is just incredibly overwhelming. Whatever it may be, I’m going to be on the lookout for those who might be struggling and looking for a way to bless them.