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Gratitude on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is here, and aside from the turkey (provided free from my employer) I have much to be grateful for. Here's a brief list of some of the things I can think of...

1. Family. By family I mean those who live with me in my house and those who are far away. My wife, who loves me in spite of myself. My children, who are so happy and loving and wonderful. My parents, who give of themselves to get me where I am and where I need to be. My brothers and sisters, who have become wonderful men and women of faith. Aunts, Uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandparents - I have been blessed and I am grateful. It's a privilege to be associated with you in any way, and I hope I am worthy of you.

2. Friends. Some friends are like stars in the sky, distant yet constant. Some are like shooting stars, brief yet majestic. Some are like a campfire, warm and inviting. Some are like a rock, steadfast and immovable. All leave impressions on me and have shaped me into who I am now.

3. Health. Some of my relatives are going through significant health issues right now. We are all ultimately marked for death. But the quality of life that I enjoy is unsurpassed and I am grateful to be able to enjoy it with a body that is fully functional and healthy. It's a gift and a blessing.

4. The gospel. I find it hard to separate who I am from what I believe. Who I am is directly related to the things that I have come to understand about the purpose of life and my role in God's great plan of happiness. We are His children and He wants us to be happy. Living the gospel makes me happy - gives me hope for an eternal reward while providing guidance for avoiding pitfalls in this life. While I am far from perfect, I know that there is a plan for me to be forgiven of my imperfections as I reach for the goal of the example of our Savior.

5. Creature comforts. We live in a world that is specifically designed to make us comfortable. My house and office are warm and dry. I have plenty of food to eat and nice clothes to wear. I have two cars that run. I have a job that allows me to pay for them. My life is a wonderful thing, and I am grateful for it.

In all things, I confess the hand of the Lord. I am not worthy to take any credit for any of this - I am just a man. I am trying to take care of these things the best I can and hopefully not screw them up too bad so that I can leave this place better than when I found it... Or at least not too tarnished... :-)

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